Austin, Texas, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Nashville SC achieved a historic milestone by winning the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, defeating Austin FC 2-1 in a thrilling match at Q2 Stadium. Hany Mukhtar scored the opening goal for Nashville, while Myrto Uzuni equalized for Austin just before halftime. The decisive moment came when Sam Surridge converted a penalty for Nashville in the second half. This victory not only secures Nashville their first major trophy since joining MLS but also qualifies them for the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup, amplifying their status in American soccer.
Nashville, Tennessee – In a thrilling match on Wednesday night, Nashville SC claimed their first major trophy by winning the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, defeating Austin FC with a final score of 2-1 at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. This victory marks a significant milestone for Nashville SC, as it is their first major trophy since joining Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2020.
The match started with a promising lead for Nashville as Hany Mukhtar opened the scoring in the 17th minute, firing a precise shot into the upper corner of the net. However, Austin FC equalized just before halftime, with Myrto Uzuni scoring during first-half stoppage time. Nashville’s goalkeeper, Brian Schwake, played a pivotal role by saving a penalty from Uzuni earlier in the match after committing a foul in the penalty area.
The decisive moment came in the second half when Sam Surridge converted a penalty for Nashville in the 60th minute, securing their 2-1 lead. Despite having Surridge sent off with a red card in stoppage time, Nashville held on to their lead with ten players for the final minutes.
This victory also qualifies Nashville SC for the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup, further adding to their achievements in the tournament. The match drew a sellout crowd of 20,738 fans, enhancing the atmosphere for the historic game.
The U.S. Open Cup is recognized as the oldest soccer competition in the United States, dating back to 1914. This accomplishment is significant, particularly highlighting Nashville SC’s gradual ascent in the competitive landscape of MLS and soccer in the United States.
Nashville SC’s journey to the final included impressive victories over several teams, demonstrating consistent performance throughout the tournament. They defeated the Chattanooga Red Wolves, Orlando City, D.C. United, and the Philadelphia Union on their way to the championship. On the other hand, Austin FC, although a middle-of-the-pack team in MLS this season, showed resilience with their Open Cup run, overcoming teams like El Paso Locomotive, Houston Dynamo, and winning via penalty shootout against the San Jose Earthquakes and Minnesota United in earlier rounds.
An interesting highlight of the final match was the presence of an all-woman officiating crew, led by referee Tori Penso—a noteworthy moment in sports history. Actor Matthew McConaughey, an owner of Austin FC, was also in attendance, adding a touch of celebrity to the competition.
Nashville SC’s previous final appearance was in the Leagues Cup two years ago, where they faced a disappointing exit in a penalty shootout against Inter Miami. Currently, Nashville SC sits in sixth place in the MLS Eastern Conference and has clinched a playoff spot.
Key Highlights:
- Nashville SC won the U.S. Open Cup 2-1 against Austin FC.
- Goals scored by Hany Mukhtar and Sam Surridge for Nashville SC.
- Myrto Uzuni scored for Austin FC.
- Brian Schwake saved a penalty earlier in the match.
- Match played before a sellout crowd of 20,738 fans.
- Nashville SC qualifies for the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
What’s Next for Nashville SC?
This victory not only enhances the confidence of the Nashville SC squad heading into the remainder of the MLS season but also solidifies their emerging reputation in American soccer.
FAQ Section:
What trophy did Nashville SC win?
Nashville SC won the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, defeating Austin FC 2-1.
Where was the match played?
The match took place at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas.
Who scored the goals for Nashville SC?
Hany Mukhtar opened the scoring for Nashville SC, and Sam Surridge converted a penalty.
How did Austin FC equalize?
Myrto Uzuni equalized for Austin FC with a goal in first-half stoppage time.
What was the attendance for the final?
The announced attendance for the final was 20,738, marking a sellout crowd.
What does this win mean for Nashville SC?
This victory is Nashville SC’s first major trophy since joining MLS in 2020 and qualifies them for the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Key Features Comparison:
| Feature | Nashville SC | Austin FC |
|---|---|---|
| Final Outcome | 2-1 Win | 1 Goal |
| Trophy Earned | Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup | None |
| Goals | Hany Mukhtar, Sam Surridge | Myrto Uzuni |
| Attendance | 20,738 | 20,738 (same match) |
| Next Major Competition | 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup | None |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Nashville SC Claims First Major Trophy in Historic Win
Nashville SC Wins First Major Trophy
Nashville’s Vanderbilt Commodores Rise as College Football’s Unexpected ‘Ruiners’
Additional Resources
- The Tennessean News
- Wikipedia: Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup
- ESPN Soccer Report
- Google Search: Nashville SC vs Austin FC U.S. Open Cup Final
- KXAN Sports
- Google Scholar: Nashville SC U.S. Open Cup Final
- The Statesman Sports
- Encyclopedia Britannica: U.S. Open Cup Final
- MLS Soccer News
- Google News: U.S. Open Cup Final 2025
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