Naples, FL – [April 3, 2025] – FC Naples continues its historic run in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup with a thrilling 3-0 victory over Little Rock Rangers in the second round, securing a spot in the tournament’s third round.
From the opening whistle in its match against the Little Rock Rangers, FC Naples set the tempo when Onen found the back of the net in the first minute with an assist from O’Connor, igniting the home crowd. Just thirteen minutes later, an own goal gave FC Naples full command of the match before half time.
Throughout the game, FC Naples’ defensive discipline and midfield control limited Little Rock Rangers’ attacking chances. As the second half progressed, FC Naples continued to press forward, looking for the goal that would put the game out of reach. Their efforts were rewarded in the 77th minute when Ferrín finished a well-placed pass from Pasnik, sealing the victory and securing a clean sheet. After this 3-0 win, FC Naples will be advancing further in the U.S. Open Cup, continuing their impressive run in the tournament.
“I was pleased with our performance against Little Rock. We knew they were going to fight all game and that we would have to be disciplined to get the result,” said Coach Matt Poland.
Looking ahead to round three of the Open Cup, Coach Poland added, “Tampa Bay is historically one of the most dominant teams in USL-Championship. They will be a tough game but a great opportunity for our players to showcase their abilities against a higher-level opponent.”
Round Three of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup
FC Naples v. Tampa Bay Rowdies – Wednesday, April 16 at 7:00PM
FC Naples will now have the opportunity to compete on their home turf for the second time in the tournament, where they will face the Tampa Bay Rowdies in a highly anticipated matchup. FC Naples will host the game at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex, looking forward to its local support and further solidifying its place in the tournament. Fans will have the chance to witness the club make history in Naples, as they look to advance further in the nation’s longest-running soccer competition. The team is eager to build on their momentum and deliver another strong performance in front of their supporters.
Secure Your Tickets
FC Naples calls on all fans to be part of this historic night. As an exclusive 2025 Season Ticket Member benefit, tickets for this round of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup are included in the Season Membership. Individual tickets for the second-round match against the Tampa Bay Rowdies are available online at www.fcnaples.com/tickets. Supporters are encouraged to arrive early to experience the full matchday atmosphere. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM EST on April 16 and the club is expecting an electric crowd to push them one step closer to a deep tournament run.
About the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup
Now in its 110th edition, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has crowned U.S. Soccer’s national champion since 1914. The history-filled tournament is conducted on a single-game-knockout basis and is open to professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer. In 1999, the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the U.S. was renamed to honor American soccer pioneer Lamar Hunt.
The 2025 U.S. Open Cup winner will earn a berth in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup and have its name engraved on the Dewar Challenge Trophy – one of the oldest nationally contested trophies in American team sports – now on permanent display at the National Soccer Hall of Fame in Frisco, Texas. The 2025 tournament features a total purse worth $1 million that includes a $600,000 award for the champion.
Los Angeles Football Club of MLS is the defending Champion. The 109th edition of the tournament concluded on September 25, 2024, with LAFC beating four-time Champions Sporting Kansas City 3-1 at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles to become Open Cup Champions for the first time.
About FC Naples
FC Naples is the first professional soccer team based at the state-of-the-art Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples, Florida. As a United Soccer League expansion team, the team’s mission is to create a world-class family experience and forge a title-contending team to be the pride of Southwest Florida. FC Naples’ crest, colors, and culture are a reflection of the community’s rich history of strength and resilience, as well as a deep connection to the beach and waterways that have shaped the community. The team stands proud to represent the vibrant spirit of Naples. Learn more about the team at www.FCNaples.com.
