Republic FC Advance in U.S. Open Cup with Gritty Win Over El Farolito
Republic FC returned to the win column on Wednesday night, edging past El Farolito 1-0 in their opening match of the 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup. The result secured Sacramento’s place in the Round of 32 and marked their first victory in all competitions since opening night of the USL Championship season—a much-needed boost after four straight matches without a win.
While the performance was far from perfect, the Republic did enough to get the job done at Heart Health Park, grinding out a result in a chippy, hard-fought affair.
The decisive moment came in the 30th minute. After jumping on a defensive giveaway, Rodrigo López carried the ball forward and delivered a pinpoint cross into the box. Forward Sebastián Herrera met it with a well-placed header to give Sacramento the lead. The assist was López’s 12th in Open Cup play, extending his club record, while Herrera tallied his fifth goal in the tournament over the past three seasons.
It was a welcome contribution from both veterans—López making his first start of the season, and Herrera continuing to shine in Cup play. Despite controlling possession early and creating chances, the Republic’s struggles in the final third remained evident. They recorded 14 shots on the night, but only five were on target, and once again lacked the clinical edge needed to put the game away.
El Farolito, known for their aggressive and high-energy approach, kept Sacramento uncomfortable throughout the match. Their disruptive style led to a heated contest that saw 13 yellow cards handed out—yet somehow, no players were sent off. The visitors nearly capitalized on several occasions, but Republic goalkeeper Jared Mazzola, making his first appearance of the year, came up big when called upon. His acrobatic save in the 37th minute helped preserve the clean sheet and steady Sacramento’s nerves.
In the end, it was not a dominant performance—but it did not need to be. After a frustrating few weeks, the win offers the Republic something to build on as they look to regain momentum heading into a busy stretch of league and Cup play.
The victory also extends several impressive club milestones: their 24th Open Cup win since 2014—more than any other American club in that span—and their 10th straight victory in a tournament opener.
Following Thursday’s Round of 32 draw, Sacramento learned they will face Major League Soccer side San Jose Earthquakes on the road in the next round. The match will take place on either May 6 or 7, with kickoff details to be announced soon. It will be the first meeting between the two Northern California clubs since last year’s thrilling 2024 Round of 16 matchup, when the Republic knocked off San Jose 4-3 in one of the tournament’s most dramatic games.
With a Cup run now underway and signs of momentum building, The Republic will hope Wednesday’s gritty win proves to be a turning point.