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Phoenix Rising looks to secure its second US Open Cup win against previous MLS winners

Phoenix Rising's Collin Smith (2) dribbles the ball to pass to a teammate on April 19, 2025. Credits - Phoenix Rising FC
Photo by Phoenix Rising FC

PHOENIX — Phoenix Rising hosts the Houston Dynamo FC tomorrow for the U.S. Open Cup Round of 32 matchup, with Rising hoping to replicate another Open Cup victory.

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Preview of Rising

Phoenix defeated FC Tulsa in the third round of the U.S. Open Cup on April 16. After a tough showing, the clubs ended in a draw after regulation. Rising eventually came out on top in penalties, 4-2, and advanced in the tournament. Head coach Pa-Modou Kah praised the group’s reliance even if the match didn’t go exactly as planned.

“Things didn’t go the way we wanted it, but these are the victories that will push the team forward,” Kah said.

Rising comes off a draw against the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC on May 3, and might have to go without Jearl Margaritha. He sustained an injury during the match in Colorado. This is another blow to Rising with more star players going on its injured list.

Phoenix Rising FC's Jearl Margaritha (7) hugs Dariusz Formella (29) after his goal against Colorado Springs Switchback FC on May 3, 2025. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing/Switchbacks FC

May 3, 2024; Colorado Springs, CO, USA; Phoenix Rising FC forward Jearl Margaritha (7) celebrates his goal with forward Dariusz Formella (29) in the first half at Weidner Field. Credit: Isaiah J. Downing/Switchbacks FC

Preview of the Dynamo

Houston is part of the MLS Western Conference, currently in 14th place. The Dynamo will make its U.S. Open Cup debut this year against Rising, and compete in its third. The club won the cup twice, in 2018 and 2023, and did not trail a club in its latest win. The Dynamo comes off a loss on the road to Los Angeles FC, 2-0, on May 3.

Both clubs have met only on two occasions in the preseason, with Houston winning both times. Tomorrow will be the first time Rising and the Dynamo face each other in competitive action.

Houston Dynamo players jump to defend a kick by Los Angeles FC's Marco Delgado on May 3, 2025. Credit - Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

May 3, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Houston Dynamo defends a kick by LAFC midfielder Marco Delgado (8) during the first half at BMO Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Phoenix and Houston will battle for a chance to advance in the U.S. Open Cup tomorrow, May 7 at 7 p.m.

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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde

Rising looks to its young core to step up amidst injuries

 

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