US Open Cup Preview: Republic FC vs El Farolito
Republic FC open their US Open Cup campaign in the Third round against El Farolito
Match Details
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 16, 2025 - 7:00 p.m. PT
Venue: Heart Health Park, Sacramento, CA
Competition: US Open Cup | Third Round
Watch: Paramount+, CBS Sports Network
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Sacramento Republic FC
The Indomitable Club comes into this midweek Open Cup clash on the back of a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Orange County SC in league play. Despite showing flashes of dominance — outshooting their hosts and controlling possession — Republic FC fell behind early and could not complete the comeback. That loss marked their second of the season, and they will be looking to bounce back quickly in a competition where they have historically shined.
El Farolito
The Burrito Boys are enjoying a fairy-tale run through the early rounds. After stunning Real Monarchs 3-1 in Round One, they followed it up with a gritty comeback win over Monterey Bay FC, scoring late to knock off their first-ever USL Championship opponent. Now, the reigning NPSL champions travel to Sacramento with upset momentum and belief on their side.
Head-to-Head
This will be the first-ever meeting between Sacramento Republic FC and El Farolito. While the clubs operate in different tiers of the American soccer pyramid, both have developed reputations for punching above their weight in the U.S. Open Cup.
Sacramento’s Open Cup Record:
• Appearances: 9
• Wins: 20
• Notable Run: 2022 Finalists (defeated 3 MLS teams)
El Farolito’s Open Cup Legacy:
• 1993 Champions (as CD Mexico)
• 2023 & 2024 Open Division Champions
• 2024: Already defeated Real Monarchs (MLS Next Pro) and Monterey Bay FC (USL Championship)
Squad News & Availability
Republic FC:
• Rodrigo López is expected to feature after making his return from a long-term ACL injury. The all-time Open Cup assist leader will be a key figure.
• Sebastian Herrera is also one to watch — he has four goals in four Open Cup games, all vs. MLS teams.
• Several key players may be rotated to manage workload with another league fixture looming this weekend.
El Farolito:
• Edgard Kreye leads the attack with a goal and three shots on target.
• Helbert Soto has been the heartbeat of the midfield with four chances created and 16 possessions won.
• Goalkeeper Johan Lizarralde has made eight saves in the tournament so far and will need to be in top form again.
Tactical Preview & Key Matchups
Possession vs. Pressure:
Sacramento will look to dominate possession and control the tempo, something they have done well even in defeat. Expect them to lean into their structured attack and test the resilience of El Farolito’s compact defensive unit.
Set Pieces Could Be Key:
Republic FC’s own goal last weekend came from a set piece breakdown. With López likely back on corners and free kicks, this could be a key opportunity to tilt the match in Sacramento’s favor.
Depth vs. Determination:
El Farolito may not have the same level of fitness or depth, but what they lack in resources they make up for in grit. With back-to-back upsets behind them, their confidence and discipline could make this a tricky fixture if Sacramento doesn’t strike early.
Final Thoughts
This one is for the Open Cup romantics. Two of the tournament’s most beloved underdog stories collide under the lights at Heart Health Park. For Sacramento, it’s about chasing silverware and proving they can bounce back. For El Farolito, it’s another shot at history. No matter how it plays out, it’s a match that captures what makes the Cup magical.
Quail City Soccer Staff Predictions
• Ryan Hodek: 2-1 Republic FC
• Valor Nash: 3-0 Republic FC
• Daniel Tyree: 4-1 Republic FC
• Rachael: 2-1 Republic FC
Who do you think will get it right?
Vote for your favorite prediction and leave your own in the comments below!