U.S. Soccer released the 2019 edition of its U.S. Open Cup handbook this week, revealing some interesting changes for the historic tournament.
Among the most notable: A fourth player substitution will now be allowed in matches that go to extra time, allowing for another set of fresh legs to enter play in the late going.
In another significant shift, the federation is making plans for all Open Cup matches to be broadcast, so host venues will now be required to have additional staff in place to support this, including a broadcast operations manager and an electrician.