Memphis is set to rock once more to the rhythms of soccer fandom as Memphis 901 FC gears up to host Miami United FC in a much-anticipated U.S. Open Cup third-round clash at AutoZone Park. As the city prepares for the return of the tournament action after a hiatus since 2019, the Beale Street Boys are looking to conjure up the same magic that saw large crowds supporting their initial Open Cup forays—with attendances reported by Bluff City Media hitting the 4,000 mark in their debut season. The showdown is scheduled for April 17 at 6:30 p.m. CT, promising a night of competitive soccer under the Memphis sky.

While Memphis 901 FC prepares to showcase their mettle, the broader American soccer landscape grapples with the contentious participation—or lack thereof—of MLS teams in the U.S. Open Cup. It was in December that MLS announced its intentions to not fully participate, a decision that has since allowed only eight out of 27 teams to compete. Despite this ongoing saga that Bluff City Media has been following, teams from the USL Championship, including the Memphis squad, will unflinchingly step up to maintain the tradition of the storied tournament.

Miami United FC, not without their own share of drama, are slated to go head-to-head against the Beale Street Boys, following reports of unusual betting activity linked to their previous Cup victory as outlined by BVM Sports. Nevertheless, the team from Miami has managed to clinch victories that have propelled them to this stage, showcasing a tenacity that could make for a gritty cup tie against the hometown favorites.

As for Memphis 901 FC, they have historically had a strong showing in the Cup, as noted by Bluff City Media, including a memorable 2019 run that only ended at the hands of an MLS team. After the cancellation of the 2020 and 2021 editions, the team looks to really push forward and craft another memorable journey in this year's Open Cup narrative. With the city behind them, and AutoZone Park setting the stage, the match promises to add an exciting chapter amidst the MLS participation uncertainties and reinforce the competition's intrigue.

The bottom line is that Memphis 901 FC's date with destiny against Miami United marks a significant moment for the local sports scene. As reported by Memphis 901 FC’s official website, this game does not only herald the Cup's return to Memphis but also stands as a beacon of the unfettered competitive spirit that permeates U.S. soccer, despite the nuances unfolding within the league above.