When it comes to capturing the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup title, the task for every MLS team is simple: Win five elimination games in a row, and the trophy is yours. It’s about as straightforward as it gets to earn silverware, but it’s not a path the San Jose Earthquakes have every completed.
Wednesday night, against Sporting Kansas City, the Quakes take step four of five to the trophy, as they face their Western Conference rivals in a win or go home semifinal match at Children’s Mercy Park, kick-off at 5:30 p.