The match is set. Atlanta United know who their first-ever U.S. Open Cup opponent will be and they know them very well. It’s their own USL affiliate, the Charleston Battery. They defeated the Jacksonville Armada, 1-0, to clinch a spot in the fourth round to take on the Five Stripes.
The two teams met in the preseason in the Carolina Challenge Cup, with Atlanta United rescuing a late win by pulling some guy named Tito Villalba off the bench to score the dramatic winner at the death.
Most early round matches hosted by MLS teams are played at smaller venues and this one will be no different.