It’s rare to see a team run into the U.S. Open Cup’s international rule particularly hard, but that’s exactly what’s happening to the Philadelphia Union. D.C. United’s opponent in tonight’s fourth round match was already dealing with starters being out with injuries or for Gold Cup duty, but they’ll also have to leave four internationals off their roster to meet tournament rules (you’re only allowed to dress 5 internationals in Open Cup play).
We’re not talking about their supporting cast, either. Starting goalkeeper Andre Blake is with Jamaica. Mexican international Marco Fabian joined El Tri’s Gold Cup camp before he was fit, and aggravated an existing ankle injury.