The US Open Cup continues this week with Round 2 winners trying to advance once again, this time to face an MLS side. Of the 13 matches for this round, there are four Division 2 showdowns between the NASL and USL, most notably with Miami FC hosting the Tampa Bay Rowdies. The Rowdies were NASL mainstays until this last off-season, when the club made the switch to play in the USL. Miami FC are slowly becoming the most recognizable NASL side, playing in only their second season.
The off-season exodus of the Rowdies, along with the Ottawa Fury, from NASL to USL is part of what makes this match so intriguing, coupled with the high level play of both teams.