Nashville SC is poised for a historic moment as they prepare to face Austin FC in the 2025 U.S. Open Cup final on October 1 at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. This matchup marks a significant milestone for both teams, as they vie for their first major trophy in front of a national audience. The game is set to begin at 7 p.m. CT and will be broadcasted live on Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network.
After a challenging 2024 season where Nashville missed the playoffs for the first time in franchise history, the team has made a remarkable comeback this year. Under the guidance of head coach B.J. Callaghan, Nashville SC clinched a playoff spot following a decisive 3-1 victory over Houston Dynamo, securing their position in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs for the fifth time in six seasons. Key players like Andy Najar, who recently earned a spot on the MLS Team of the Matchday bench, have been instrumental in their resurgence. Najar’s impressive performance included contributing significantly to the team’s offensive effort, cementing his status as one of the league's top players.
The U.S. Open Cup, the oldest soccer tournament in the United States, is known for its unpredictability, featuring clubs from various levels of American soccer. For Nashville, winning this cup would not only mean a trophy but also mark a historic achievement as the first major trophy for a professional sports team in Tennessee. The excitement surrounding the final has captured the attention of fans and media alike, with discussions focusing on the importance of the cup and what it would mean for the club and the city.
Austin FC, hosting the match, has also shown resilience this season, aiming to secure their first major tournament title. The stakes are high as both teams prepare to battle for glory, with Nashville SC's dynamic attack led by Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar set to challenge Austin's defensive strategies.
As the countdown to the final begins, the anticipation grows, with Nashville SC aiming to turn the page on a difficult chapter in their history and etch their name into the annals of soccer in the U.S. A victory in the U.S. Open Cup could signify a new era for the franchise, encapsulating the dreams of players and fans alike.