What Is 2011 Lamar Hunt US Open Cup

Overview

The 2011 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup was the 98th edition of the oldest ongoing national soccer competition in the United States. Organized by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF), the tournament featured professional and amateur clubs from various divisions across the American soccer pyramid.

This year marked the third consecutive championship for Seattle Sounders FC, who solidified their dominance in the competition. The final match took place on October 25, 2011, at CenturyLink Field, where the Sounders defeated Chicago Fire 2–0 to claim the title.

• Final Score: Seattle Sounders FC defeated Chicago Fire 2–0 in the championship match on October 25, 2011, securing their third straight title.
• Host Venue: CenturyLink Field in Seattle hosted the final, marking the first time the Sounders played a final at home since joining MLS in 2009.
• Participating Teams: A record 40 teams competed, including MLS, USL Pro, and amateur clubs, reflecting the tournament’s inclusive qualification structure.
• Defending Champions: Seattle entered as defending champions after winning in 2009 and 2010, becoming the first MLS team to win three consecutive titles.
• Historical Significance: The 2011 edition celebrated the 98th running of the tournament, which dates back to 1914, making it one of the oldest soccer competitions in the world.

How It Works

The U.S. Open Cup is a single-elimination tournament open to all affiliated soccer teams in the United States, from amateur to professional levels. Clubs qualify through league performance or regional tournaments, with seeding based on division and past success.

• Single-Elimination Format: Teams compete in knockout matches; a loss eliminates a team, and winners advance to the next round until a champion is crowned.
• Qualification Path: MLS teams enter in later rounds, while lower-division and amateur clubs must qualify through preliminary regional competitions starting in May.
• Home Advantage: The team with the higher seed or better regular-season record typically hosts the match, unless mutually agreed otherwise.
• Extra Time & Penalties: If tied after 90 minutes, two 15-minute extra time periods are played, followed by penalty kicks if needed to determine a winner.
• Prize & Recognition: The winner earns $250,000 in prize money and qualifies for the CONCACAF Champions League, enhancing international exposure.
• Eligibility Rules: Players must be registered with U.S. Soccer; MLS teams may use full rosters, while amateur teams follow specific amateur status guidelines.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a comparison of the 2011 U.S. Open Cup with recent editions to highlight structural and competitive trends:

The data shows Seattle’s dominance from 2009–2011, with increasing attendance reflecting growing fan interest. The consistent inclusion of MLS teams in later rounds has elevated the competition’s profile, though amateur clubs still occasionally reach the semifinals.

Why It Matters

The 2011 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup was significant for both competitive and cultural reasons within American soccer. It highlighted the potential for lower-division teams to compete with MLS clubs and provided exposure for the sport at all levels.

• National Exposure: Broadcasts on ESPN3 and local networks increased visibility, helping grow the sport’s fan base beyond traditional markets.
• Amateur Inclusion: Teams like GPS Portland Phoenix and Bavarian SC participated, showcasing the depth of American soccer talent.
• Path to International Play: The winner earned a spot in the 2012–13 CONCACAF Champions League, offering a rare chance for U.S. clubs to compete internationally.
• Financial Incentive: The $250,000 prize was a major motivator, especially for lower-division teams with limited budgets.
• Historical Legacy: Seattle’s three-peat established a new benchmark in U.S. soccer, drawing comparisons to historic dynasties in other leagues.
• Community Engagement: Hosting matches in smaller cities and amateur venues strengthened local soccer communities and inspired youth participation.

Overall, the 2011 tournament reinforced the U.S. Open Cup’s role as a unifying force in American soccer, bridging divisions and celebrating the sport’s grassroots roots while elevating professional standards.