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Columbus Crew to Face Richmond Kickers in U.S. Open Cup Round of 32
Crew return to the tournament for the first time since 2023, kickoff set for April 15.
Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:35pm
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The Columbus Crew's return to the U.S. Open Cup promises an exciting clash with the underdog Richmond Kickers.Columbus TodayThe Columbus Crew will compete in the U.S. Open Cup for the first time since 2023, facing off against USL League One's Richmond Kickers in the round of 32 on April 15. The Crew missed the tournament in recent years due to their participation in the Concacaf Champions Cup, but are now eligible to take part in the 80-team national cup competition.
Why it matters
The U.S. Open Cup is a prestigious tournament that provides an opportunity for lower-division clubs to compete against MLS teams. For the Crew, it marks a return to a competition they've had success in, having won the title in 2002. The matchup against Richmond also gives the Crew a chance to test themselves against a talented USL opponent.
The details
The Crew will travel to face the Richmond Kickers, who advanced to the round of 32 by defeating Northern Virginia 2-0 in the first round and Loudoun United 1-0 in the second round. Richmond plays in the USL League One, the second-highest division of the USL. The Crew, meanwhile, are making their 25th appearance in the U.S. Open Cup, with their 2002 title being the organization's first major championship.
- The round of 32 matchup between the Columbus Crew and Richmond Kickers is set for April 15, 2026.
- Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
The players
Columbus Crew
The professional soccer club based in Columbus, Ohio, that competes in Major League Soccer (MLS).
Richmond Kickers
A professional soccer club based in Richmond, Virginia, that competes in USL League One, the second-highest division of the United Soccer Leagues (USL).
What’s next
The winner of the Columbus Crew vs. Richmond Kickers matchup will advance to the round of 16 in the U.S. Open Cup.
The takeaway
The Columbus Crew's return to the U.S. Open Cup after missing the tournament in recent years due to Concacaf Champions Cup commitments presents an exciting opportunity for the club to compete for another domestic cup title. The matchup against the Richmond Kickers also showcases the depth of talent across the American soccer pyramid.
