A quick glance at the Eastern Conference standings leading up to the U.S. Open Cup Semifinal match-up between D.C. United and the Columbus Crew seems to show that United doesn’t have much of a chance to make it to the final. Fortunately for the Black-and-Red, the MLS regular season is completely unrelated to the Open Cup. Here are five other reasons why United has can be hopeful entering the U.S. Open Cup semifinal.
Total Commitment: In the history of MLS, I can’t remember any team resting players in a League match in order to stay fresh for the U.S. Open Cup, but that’s what happened this past weekend for D.C. United. MLS Cup is the crown jewel of MLS. As such, teams often have that trophy as their main goal. The U.S. Open Cup is not simply an afterthought, but it is less important than MLS Cup. As hopes fade for a playoff spot and a chance to lift the MLS Cup in 2010, United is totally focused on the U.S. Open Cup trophy.
Andy Najar: D.C. United’s talented 17-year old has done a lot of great things on the field for United this season, but perhaps he has been even more special in the club’s Open Cup run, especially at RFK. Andy scored his first goal as a pro in the first play-in game against FC Dallas. Then in the next play-in match against Real Salt Lake, Najar scored his most beautiful and significant goal with his dazzling skills and smooth finish in overtime to send D.C. into the Round of Sixteen.
