Orlando City SC Faces FC Naples in 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 32
The 111th edition of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup continues this week as Major League Soccer’s Orlando City SC travels south to face USL League One side FC Naples. The matchup, scheduled for Wednesday, April 15, pits one of the country’s most experienced Open Cup programs against a rising third-division club looking to make a historic mark.
Match Details and Broadcast Information
The Round of 32 clash will take place at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples, Florida. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the action live on CBS Sports Network and stream the match on Paramount+.
FC Naples: A Historic Opportunity
For FC Naples, this match represents a milestone as the second-year club faces a Major League Soccer opponent for the first time. The USL League One side enters the contest in strong form, currently ranking first in their league with a 2-1-1 record through the first four matches of the 2026 campaign.
Naples secured their spot in the Round of 32 with two dominant shutouts, defeating National Premier Soccer League side Red Forge FC 3-0 in the first round and FC America CFL Spurs 3-0 in the second round. Head Coach Matt “Gaffa” Poland has emphasized maintaining the club’s identity regardless of the opponent, noting that the team is focused on earning the win in front of their home fans. Team captain and goalkeeper Edward “Lalo” Delgado echoed this sentiment, calling on his teammates to rise to the moment.
Orlando City: Rotation and Redemption
Orlando City SC arrives in Naples with a storied history in the U.S. Open Cup, including a championship victory in 2022 where they defeated Sacramento Republic FC 3-1. Since 2011, the Lions have maintained a 19-11-5 record in the competition.
However, the club is currently navigating a difficult start to its MLS league campaign. Interim head coach Martín Perelman is expected to rotate the squad heavily for this midweek fixture. The Lions will likely rely on players from Orlando City B and fringe first-team prospects to evaluate young talent and provide rest for regular starters. Key players expected to see significant minutes include:
- Javier Otero: Expected to take over starting duties in goal.
- Gustavo Caraballo: Forward candidate for significant playing time.
- Tahir Reid-Brown: Defender expected to feature prominently.
Defender Zakaria Taifi highlighted the importance of the tournament, stating that the main goal is to replicate the club’s 2022 success and win the trophy again.
Looking Ahead: The Path to the Round of 16
The stakes for this match extend beyond the immediate result. Hosting priorities for the Round of 16 have already been determined. Orlando City does not hold hosting priorities; if they advance past FC Naples, they will travel to face the winner of the matchup between Rhode Island FC and the New England Revolution.
Key Takeaways
- Date & Time: Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET.
- Venue: Paradise Coast Sports Complex, Naples, FL.
- FC Naples Form: Currently 1st in USL League One; advanced via two 3-0 wins.
- Orlando City Strategy: Heavy squad rotation featuring Orlando City B and prospect players.
- Historical Context: Orlando City is a former champion (2022) of the competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I watch the Orlando City vs. FC Naples match?
The game will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network and streamed live on Paramount+.
What is the significance of the U.S. Open Cup?
The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is the oldest ongoing soccer competition in the United States, having been played for 106 consecutive years starting in 1913 (excluding the cancelled 2020 edition).
Who will Orlando City face if they win?
The Lions will travel to face the winner of the game between Rhode Island FC and the New England Revolution in the Round of 16.