New York City FC has reinforced its roster by signing Goalkeeper Mac Learned, Midfielder Peter Molinari, and Forward Seymour Reid to Short-Term Agreements from MLS NEXT Pro affiliate New York City FC II in preparation for the 2025 Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup match. These acquisitions showcase the club's commitment to integrating promising talent into the first team. Learned, Molinari, and Reid have traveled with the team to Pittsburgh and are poised for potential selection as the 'Boys in Blue' gear up to take on USL Championship side Pittsburgh Riverhounds in the Round of 32.
The match, scheduled for tonight, May 7 at 7pm ET, will be televised on Paramount+ and CBS Sports Network, providing fans with front-row access to witness the strategic maneuvers and thrilling gameplay unfold. Learned, after engaging in preseason activities with the First Team in January, made the transition to New York City II ahead of the 2025 season, showcasing his skills in six appearances and securing one clean sheet for the team. Molinari, on the other hand, is now on his fourth and final Short-Term Agreement of the season, having made a significant impact with seven starts for New York City FC II. As a Homegrown player set to join the First Team in 2027, Molinari is a talent to watch out for. Reid, the youngest player to debut for the First Team after signing a Short-Term Agreement earlier in the season, has been a force to be reckoned with, scoring four goals in nine appearances for New York City FC II. His future with the club as a Homegrown player is highly anticipated.
In adherence to MLS rules, clubs can sign players aged 25 or younger from their MLS NEXT Pro affiliate to a maximum of four Short-Term Agreements per season, a rule that provides opportunities for young talents to showcase their potential at a higher level. Players can feature in up to four MLS league season match rosters during the season, with restrictions on appearing in a maximum of two league matches. However, there are no such restrictions in non-league games during the duration of these agreements.
New York City FC's participation in the U.S. Open Cup holds significance, with the Club returning to the competition after its MLS NEXT Pro affiliate, New York City FC II, made history by progressing to the Round of 16 in 2024. The club has a storied history in the tournament, notably reaching the Quarterfinals in 2019 and 2022, marking its deep runs in the U.S. Open Cup so far. Following the hiatus in 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, New York City FC is back with renewed vigor, aiming to make its mark in the 2025 edition of the competition.
As the excitement builds for the Round of 32 clash between New York City FC and Pittsburgh Riverhounds, fans can anticipate a gripping matchup at Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The game, slated for Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET, will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network, offering viewers a chance to witness the intense action unfold.
The U.S. Open Cup holds a special place in American soccer, being the nation's oldest ongoing national soccer competition. Dominated by MLS teams in recent years, the tournament has been a stage for showcasing the talent and competitiveness in American soccer. With teams like New York City FC and Pittsburgh Riverhounds aiming to make their mark, the Round of 32 promises to deliver exhilarating moments and fierce competition.
FuboTV, a prominent live TV streaming service, offers a platform to catch all the US Open Cup action, including select games, providing fans with a convenient way to stay engaged with the tournament. The service's focus on live sports, including both domestic and international soccer, adds to the allure of watching the US Open Cup games in real-time. By offering an array of channels and exclusive programming, FuboTV ensures that fans do not miss any of the thrilling moments on the field.
In conclusion, the upcoming Round of 32 clash between New York City FC and Pittsburgh Riverhounds exemplifies the essence of competition in American soccer, bringing together top talents and passionate fans in a battle for glory. With both teams aiming to advance further in the tournament, the stakes are high, promising an evening of intense action and unforgettable moments for soccer enthusiasts.