Sporting Kansas City was eliminated from the U.S. Open Cup in the Round of 32 after a 3-0 defeat to Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC at Weidner Field, according to an April 15 announcement.
The result ends Sporting KC’s run in this year’s tournament and shifts their focus back to Major League Soccer play. The match saw head coach Raphael Wicky make three changes from the previous lineup, introducing Jansen Miller, Jake Davis, and Capita Capemba as starters for the club’s cup opener.
Colorado Springs took control early with Juan Tejada scoring in the 11th minute, followed by Sadam Masereka doubling their lead before halftime. Despite attempts by Sporting KC players such as Davis and Taylor Calheira early in the second half, they were unable to convert chances into goals. Dejan Joveljic also came close but could not beat Colorado Springs goalkeeper Christian Herrera.
Sporting KC faced further difficulties when Shapi Suleymanov received a red card in the 78th minute following an altercation on the field. Khori Bennett added a third goal for Colorado Springs six minutes later, sealing Sporting’s elimination from the competition.
Looking ahead, Sporting Kansas City will continue its road trip with a return to MLS action against Vancouver Whitecaps at BC Place on Friday night.