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US Open Cup Round of 16 Recap: Nashville SC Advances with 3-2 Win Over Louisville City FC
The Round of 16 of the 2022 US Open Cup concluded on Wednesday evening, with Nashville SC earning a thrilling 3-2 victory over Louisville City FC at First Tennessee Park. The win sends Nashville SC to the quarterfinals of the tournament for the second consecutive year.
The match got off to a frenetic start, with both teams creating early chances. Louisville City FC’s Cameron Lancaster had the first real opportunity, striking a shot that forced Nashville SC goalkeeper Joe Willis to make a diving save in the 10th minute. Nashville SC responded immediately, with Hany Ruprah capitalizing on a defensive mistake to slot home the opener in the 12th minute.
The hosts doubled their advantage just before halftime, with Randall Leal scoring from the penalty spot in the 44th minute. Louisville City FC pushed hard for a response in the second half, and eventually got their reward in the 65th minute. Lancaster pulled one back with a well-taken header, and the visitors reduced the deficit to 2-1.
However, Nashville SC restored their two-goal cushion just five minutes later. Leal bagged his second of the night, finishing off a swift counter-attack to put the hosts back in command. Louisville City FC continued to push for a dramatic comeback, and were eventually rewarded with a second goal in the 85th minute. Lancaster’s second of the night set up a nervy finish, but Nashville SC held on to secure the 3-2 win.
"Tonight was a big result for us," said Nashville SC head coach Gary Smith after the match. "We knew Louisville City FC would be a tough opponent, but we showed our character and resilience to get the win. We’re proud to be moving on to the quarterfinals."
The victory marks the third time in the past four years that Nashville SC has advanced to the US Open Cup quarterfinals. The team will await the draw for the quarterfinals, which is set to take place next week.
In other US Open Cup Round of 16 action, the Chicago Fire secured a 1-0 win over St. Louis City SC, while the San Jose Earthquakes edged out Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC by a 2-1 score. The quarterfinals are set to take place on July 5-6, with the winners advancing to the US Open Cup semifinals on August 9-10.
