The 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup has kicked off with thrilling matches and surprising outcomes. Asheville City SC made headlines by securing their first-ever win in the tournament with a late goal against Greenville Triumph, while other amateur teams like Valley 559 FC also celebrated key victories. Notable rivalries were reignited, and the anticipation builds as U.S. Soccer reveals a 16-match schedule for the upcoming second round. Teams like Chattanooga FC and CFC are set to host fixtures in the next stage of the tournament, underscoring the competitiveness of this historic event. The first round showcased a mix of amateur and professional teams, with seven advancing to round two, setting the stage for intriguing matchups and regional rivalries in the days ahead.