Earthquakes Defeat Rising FC in Open Cup Clash

San Jose advances to next round with 3-1 victory over Phoenix

Apr. 15, 2026 at 8:03pm

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An abstract, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic action of a soccer match, with angular, overlapping geometric shapes in shades of blue, black, white, purple, and orange representing the players and ball.The Earthquakes' hard-fought victory over Phoenix Rising FC in the US Open Cup showcases the team's competitive spirit and tactical versatility.Kansas City Today

The San Jose Earthquakes defeated Phoenix Rising FC 3-1 in a hard-fought match in the U.S. Open Cup on Saturday night. The Earthquakes took an early lead and held on for the victory, advancing to the next round of the tournament.

Why it matters

The U.S. Open Cup is a prestigious national soccer tournament that features teams from across the country, providing an opportunity for smaller clubs to compete against MLS powerhouses like the Earthquakes. This win keeps San Jose's hopes alive in the tournament.

The details

The Earthquakes struck first in the 17th minute when forward Cristian Espinoza scored on a cross from midfielder Jamiro Tsakiris. Phoenix equalized in the 35th minute, but San Jose regained the lead just before halftime on a goal by striker Jeremy Ebobisse. The Earthquakes sealed the victory in the 78th minute with a goal from midfielder Jackson Yueill.

  • The match was played on Saturday, April 15, 2026.
  • San Jose took an early 1-0 lead in the 17th minute.
  • Phoenix Rising FC equalized in the 35th minute to make it 1-1.
  • The Earthquakes regained the lead just before halftime at 2-1.
  • San Jose scored a third goal in the 78th minute to make the final score 3-1.

The players

Cristian Espinoza

Forward for the San Jose Earthquakes who scored the opening goal.

Jamiro Tsakiris

Midfielder for the San Jose Earthquakes who assisted on the first goal.

Jeremy Ebobisse

Striker for the San Jose Earthquakes who scored the go-ahead goal in the first half.

Jackson Yueill

Midfielder for the San Jose Earthquakes who scored the insurance goal in the second half.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough match against a quality opponent like Phoenix, but the guys really stepped up and earned this result.”

— Matias Almeyda, Head Coach, San Jose Earthquakes

What’s next

The Earthquakes will now advance to the next round of the U.S. Open Cup, where they will face the winner of the match between the LA Galaxy and Seattle Sounders.

The takeaway

This victory showcases the Earthquakes' depth and resilience, as they were able to overcome a determined Phoenix Rising FC squad to keep their Open Cup dreams alive. The team's ability to bounce back from an early equalizer and then seal the win late demonstrates their competitive spirit and desire to succeed in this prestigious tournament.