LA Galaxy II set for US Open Cup action, first team excluded

Major League Soccer has announced that LA Galaxy II is among the MLS Next Pro teams selected to compete in the U.S. Open Cup this season, while the LA Galaxy first team will not participate. The decision to include LA Galaxy II highlights the league's commitment to providing opportunities for development and competition across its various levels.

The selection process for MLS clubs in the 2024 U.S. Open Cup includes eight teams, with Houston Dynamo FC, last year's Open Cup champion, securing automatic qualification. The remaining seven spots are allocated to the top-ranked US-based teams according to the 2023 MLS Supporters' Shield standings, excluding clubs participating in the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup.

LA Galaxy II set for US Open Cup action, first team excluded

Additionally, MLS Next Pro clubs will be represented by 11 teams in the U.S. Open Cup, including nine MLS affiliates and two independent clubs. The selection criteria for MLS-affiliated teams are based on the 2023 MLS NEXT Pro final standings, with exceptions made for clubs whose MLS first teams are competing in either the U.S. Open Cup or Concacaf Champions Cup.

The MLS clubs competing in the 2024 U.S. Open Cup are Atlanta United, FC Dallas, Houston Dynamo FC, Sporting Kansas City, LAFC, Real Salt Lake, San Jose Earthquakes, and Seattle Sounders FC. On the other hand, MLS NEXT Pro teams representing the league in the tournament include Austin FC, Charlotte FC, Chicago Fire FC, Colorado Rapids, LA Galaxy, Minnesota United FC, New York City FC, New York Red Bulls, and Portland Timbers.

Twelve MLS teams will not participate in the 2024 U.S. Open Cup, with some opting out due to their involvement in the Concacaf Champions Cup or the Canadian Championship. MLS expresses its commitment to collaborating with U.S. Soccer and all Open Cup stakeholders to enhance the tournament, benefiting players, clubs, and fans alike. This decision underscores MLS's dedication to promoting soccer development and fostering a competitive environment within North American soccer.