JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville Armada begins play in the U.S. Open Cup at 7 p.m. Wednesday in Hialeah against Miami United FC of the NPSL.
Although coming off its first loss this year to North Carolina FC in Week Seven of the NASL Spring Season, Jacksonville is looking to transfer its early success this season over to the U.S. Open Cup in its first meeting in history with Miami United FC.
The U.S. Open Cup is open to all professional and semi-professional soccer clubs in the United States and includes teams from the North American Soccer League, like the Armada, as well as MLS clubs and several other leagues.
Last year, the Armada beat the Charleston Battery 2-1 thanks to an extra time goal by Keita.
The Armada have opened the season with positive results in six of seven matches, and did not lose until Saturday, when they were defeated on the road by North Carolina FC 3-1. Despite the single loss, the Armada sit in 5th place in the NASL table.
If Jacksonville beats Miami United, the Armada would advance in the U.S. Open Cup to face the winner of the Atlanta Silverbacks (NPSL) vs. Charleston Battery (USL) matchup. That third round match is scheduled for May 31, and could be played in Jacksonville.
After playing in south Florida, the Armada will travel to San Francisco to face the Deltas on Friday in NASL play.