CHICAGO(May 19, 2016) – The Chicago Fire will begin their 2016 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup campaign when they enter the storied tournament in the fourth round on June 15 against the winner of the Louisville City (USL) vs. Indy Eleven (NASL) game slated for June 1.
“The U.S. Open Cup is one of the oldest championships in all of world soccer and one of the most prestigious in the United States,” said Fire general manager Nelson Rodríguez. “Named after one of the greatest sportmen in our country’s history, Mr. Lamar Hunt, the Fire is honored to participate in this event and we aim to join Bethlehem Steel and Maccabi Los Angeles as the only five-time winners of the Open Cup.”
The Fire will host the fourth round match should Indy Eleven emerge victorious. Louisville City will host the fourth round match should they win.
MORE: Chicago Fire in Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup
Louisville City advanced to the third round with a 3-1 penalty kick win over NPSL side Detroit City FC after regulation ended in a 1-1 draw.
Since 1998, the Fire have compiled a 39-13-4 record in Open Cup play, including a 26-1-1 record in matches played in the state of Illinois, reaching the semifinal round 11 times and the final six times. The Fire previously hoisted the coveted Dewar Trophy four times, in 1998, 2000, 2003 and 2006.
