For the first time since 2023, all eligible MLS teams — 27 U.S. teams — will enter the 2027 U.S. Open Cup.

The 96-team competition will begin in April with the first round and conclude with the final scheduled for Dec. 15.

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Paul Kennedy edited Soccer America for 41 years (1985-2026). He began writing for SA in 1974. He started writing for France Football in 1978 and has served on in Ballon d'Or jury since 2007.