Detroit City FC is set to begin its 2026 US Open Cup campaign in the First Round, following changes to the tournament’s format. Last season, Detroit City entered in the third round and defeated Westchester SC 3-1 at Keyworth Stadium before falling to Chicago Fire FC 4-0 in the Round of 32.
This year, Michigan Rangers will make their debut in the competition after securing a National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) qualifier spot. The Rangers topped the Midwest Region Central States Conference with 24 points and won their first trophy by defeating FC Pride 2-1 in the final.
Detroit City has developed a reputation for upsetting higher-ranked teams in recent editions of the US Open Cup. In 2022, they overcame an early deficit to defeat Major League Soccer’s Columbus Crew with two goals from Maxi Rodriguez. In 2024, Detroit City eliminated defending champions Houston Dynamo FC after an extended penalty shootout.
The tournament will now feature seven rounds instead of eight. A total of 80 teams will compete for a $1 million prize pool and a place in the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup. The number of professional teams participating has been reduced from 64 last season to 48 this year.
The First Round consists of 32 matches where amateur teams face opponents from leagues such as USL Championship, USL League One, or MLS NEXT Pro. Winners from these matches will move on to play again on March 31 or April 1.
