Ristozi FC Draws Charlotte Independence in First Round of 2026 US Open Cup
Baltimore, MD — Ristozi FC has earned its place in the 2026 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, marking the first Open Cup appearance in club history and a major step forward for the club. The Baltimore based side has drawn Charlotte Independence of USL League One in the First Round, with the match set for Thursday, March 19, 2026.
The Open Cup berth caps off a breakthrough season for Ristozi FC, which completed its first year in the NPSL with a strong run after winning both the NPSL Mid-Atlantic Conference championship, and the East Region Championship. Ristozi earned an automatic qualification in the Open Cup after being one of four NPSL National semifinalists.
“We set out at the beginning of the NPSL season to test ourselves at the highest level possible,” said co founder Francis Shkurti. “Making the U.S. Open Cup in our first NPSL season and qualifying as one of just four teams to reach the national stage is something special. The players and coaches put in the work every single day, and it paid off in the end.”
Matchup with Charlotte Independence
Ristozi FC’s Open Cup opponent is a challenging First Round matchup against Charlotte Independence, a professional side with extensive Open Cup experience. The match will kick off at 6:30 p.m. ET on March 19 at Mecklenburg County Sportsplex in Matthews, North Carolina.
While Charlotte Independence enters as the favorite on paper, the Open Cup’s reputation for upsets is well known, and Ristozi FC will be ready.
The match will be broadcast live on Youtube from the Official US. Soccer channel.
Community Pride and Statewide Support
As Maryland’s lone representative in the 2026 tournament, Ristozi FC has garnered attention across the state. Interest from local businesses, youth clubs, and community partners continues to grow, with sponsorship and partnership opportunities available through the club’s official Partners Page.
Preparation
With March 19 approaching, Ristozi FC’s focus is firmly on preparation. Qualifying for the 2026 U.S. Open Cup is already a landmark moment for the club; turning that opportunity into a result against professional opposition would make the night one to remember.
