The 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup: Round of 32
The 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is poised to deliver an electrifying spectacle for soccer fans nationwide, with the Round of 32 matches scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. This stage of the tournament welcomes 16 Major League Soccer (MLS) teams, who will compete against lower-division opponents from the USL Championship and USL League One. The anticipation is high as fans prepare to witness these exhilarating matchups, broadcasted across multiple platforms.
Broadcast Details and Viewing Options
Soccer enthusiasts have a variety of ways to catch the live action. All 16 Round of 32 games will be streamed on Paramount+, ensuring that viewers can access every thrilling moment of the competition. For those who prefer a more traditional viewing experience, select matches will be broadcast live on CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports Golazo Network. This multi-platform approach caters to diverse viewer preferences, whether they favor streaming or traditional television.
The convenience of Paramount+ allows fans to watch the games on their preferred devices, from smartphones to smart TVs. This flexibility is crucial in today’s fast-paced world, where viewers want to enjoy their favorite sports on the go. Meanwhile, the availability of select matches on CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports Golazo Network provides a sense of familiarity for those who have grown accustomed to watching sports on television. This dual approach ensures that the U.S. Open Cup reaches a broader audience, engaging both tech-savvy viewers and traditional sports enthusiasts.
Key Matchups and Highlights
One of the most anticipated matchups in the Round of 32 is the local derby between Nashville SC and Chattanooga Red Wolves. This game will take place at GEODIS Park, kicking off at 5:00 PM ET on Tuesday, May 6. Fans can tune in to CBS Sports or Paramount+ to watch the action live. The local rivalry adds an extra layer of excitement, as both teams will be eager to claim bragging rights and advance in the tournament.
Another notable match features FC Cincinnati and Austin FC, who will face off against El Paso Locomotive. This game, along with others, will be aired on CBS Sports, adding to the excitement of the round. The diversity of matchups ensures that there is something for every soccer fan, from local derbies to clashes between top-tier MLS teams and lower-division underdogs.
Historical Context and Significance
The U.S. Open Cup has a storied history, with MLS teams dominating the tournament since 1996. However, there have been memorable exceptions, such as Indy Eleven reaching the semifinals in 2024 and Sacramento Republic FC making it to the finals in 2022. These underdog stories add an extra layer of intrigue to the competition, as lower-division teams aim to upset the MLS giants. The Round of 32 will be a critical stage for these underdogs, as they seek to prove that they can compete with the best in American soccer.
The historical context of the U.S. Open Cup adds depth to the current tournament, reminding fans of past upsets and underdog victories. These moments of triumph have become legendary in American soccer, inspiring lower-division teams to believe that they too can challenge the established order. The Round of 32 will be a test of their mettle, as they face off against some of the strongest teams in the country.
The Draw and Matchups
The draw for the Round of 32 took place at 9:15 AM ET on CBS Sports Golazo Network, revealing the matchups that will shape the tournament’s progression. MLS sides will now enter the competition, facing off against a mix of USL Championship and USL League One teams. This round will feature 12 teams from the USL Championship and three from USL League One, providing a diverse range of opponents for the MLS clubs. The draw results have set the stage for some highly anticipated matchups, with fans eager to see how these teams fare against each other.
The diversity of matchups in the Round of 32 ensures that the tournament remains unpredictable and exciting. Fans can look forward to a variety of styles and strategies, as teams from different divisions bring their unique strengths to the field. This diversity is a hallmark of the U.S. Open Cup, making it one of the most thrilling competitions in American soccer.
The Impact of the New Broadcast Agreement
The U.S. Open Cup has found a new home on CBS Sports and Paramount+, thanks to a multimedia rights agreement between U.S. Soccer and CBS Sports. This partnership ensures that every match from the third round onwards will be shown on Paramount+, with select games simulcast on CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports Golazo Network. This expanded coverage will make the tournament more accessible to fans, allowing them to follow their favorite teams and players throughout the competition.
The new broadcast agreement is a game-changer for the U.S. Open Cup, bringing it to a wider audience than ever before. The availability of matches on multiple platforms ensures that fans can watch the games in a way that suits their preferences, whether they are at home, on the go, or in a social setting. This increased accessibility is crucial for the growth of the tournament, as it allows more fans to engage with the sport and develop a deeper appreciation for American soccer.
Conclusion: A Thrilling Chapter Awaits
The 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 32 promises to be an exciting chapter in American soccer. With MLS teams entering the fray and facing off against lower-division opponents, the stage is set for some thrilling matchups. Fans can look forward to a diverse range of viewing options, with all games streamed on Paramount+ and select matches broadcasted on CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports Golazo Network. As the tournament progresses, soccer enthusiasts will be treated to a spectacle of skill, strategy, and unpredictability, making this year’s U.S. Open Cup a must-watch event. The conclusion of the Round of 32 will set the stage for the next phase of the competition, where the remaining teams will battle it out for a chance to lift the prestigious trophy. The excitement and anticipation are palpable, and fans can expect a rollercoaster of emotions as the tournament unfolds. The U.S. Open Cup is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of the love for soccer in America, and this year’s edition is poised to be one for the history books.
