IRVINE, CALIFORNIA, Nov 19, 2023
Irvine Zeta FC achieved a significant milestone on Sunday night by securing a 3-1 victory over Temecula at home, officially earning a place in the prestigious 2024 U.S. Open Cup.
As an esteemed participant in the third-tier professional league NISA (National Independent Soccer Association) for the upcoming year, Irvine Zeta FC has earned an automatic spot in the U.S. Open Cup. Remarkably, while competing at the UPSL amateur level, Zeta's triumph in the Qualifier allows for the participation of two teams in the USOC next year, making the club the second in the history of the U.S. Open Cup to achieve such a distinction.
Organized by the United States Soccer Federation, the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup is the oldest nationwide tournament in the United States, encompassing a diverse range of clubs from MLS to amateur teams. Amidst the 109 teams in this year's qualifiers, only 11 progressed to the playoff stage, with Zeta FC proudly securing their position among the elite.
Cary Lyu, owner of Zeta FC, expressed his pride in the team's accomplishment, stating, "I feel so proud of the lads. They've prepared for this moment, and now they deserve it. Everybody knew the importance of this game and the moment. They knew fans are going to be here watching them. Our boys have planned out to fight for the city."
In the lead-up to this crucial victory, Zeta FC intensified their training sessions, strategically planning fan activities, on-site merchandise, and environmental enhancements to elevate the overall fan-watching experience. The dedicated efforts culminated in over 200 fans converging at the Irvine Great Park to passionately support Zeta, creating a vibrant atmosphere with chants, waving flags, and the illumination of blue and orange flares symbolizing the team's colors.
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