In a thrilling encounter at Audi Field, D.C. United overcame the Charleston Battery 2-0 in the Fourth Round of the 2025 U.S. Open Cup on May 6, 2025. The match, which saw a scoreless regulation period, ignited in extra time as Jacob Murrell netted a stunning goal, followed by a second from Jared Stroud, propelling United into the Round of 16.
The atmosphere was charged as fans packed the stadium, eager to witness this storied rivalry, which dates back to a memorable upset in 1999 when the Battery claimed victory over United in the U.S. Open Cup. That match not only marked a significant moment in American soccer history but also birthed the Coffee Pot Cup, a trophy that symbolizes the unique rivalry between these two teams.
For D.C. United, the stakes were high as they sought to shake off a challenging start to their MLS season. Coach Troy Lesesne emphasized the importance of the Cup, stating, “You look at this competition, and inevitably, a team from a lower division is probably going to knock off an MLS team. This happens every single year.” With Charleston being a formidable opponent, the match was set up for a classic.
As the game unfolded, both teams struggled to find rhythm in the first half, with neither side creating significant scoring opportunities. United, missing star striker Christian Benteke due to a shoulder injury, relied on a mix of experienced players and fresh legs to break the deadlock.
In the second half, the game began to open up, and in the 65th minute, United’s Randall Leal made his presence felt, testing Battery goalkeeper Luis Zamudio with a well-placed shot. However, it wasn’t until extra time that the breakthrough finally arrived.
Just six minutes into the first extra period, Jacob Murrell delivered a moment of magic. Collecting a pass from Leal, he cut back and unleashed a spectacular 25-yard shot that curled into the top corner, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. “He seems to only score these types of goals,” Lesesne remarked with a smile, highlighting Murrell’s knack for the spectacular.
Seven minutes later, Stroud doubled United’s lead, finishing off a slick move with another assist from Leal. “Through the end of the second half, we started to create a couple more chances,” Stroud noted, reflecting on the shift in momentum that came with fresh legs on the field.
As the match drew to a close, the Battery faced further setbacks, with Juan David Torres receiving a red card, leaving Charleston with ten men. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t find a way back into the game, and United secured their place in the next round.
The victory not only propelled D.C. United forward in the tournament but also set the stage for a matchup against MLS’s Charlotte FC on May 21. United now aims to build on this momentum as they navigate a challenging season.
Charleston Battery, currently third in the USL Championship’s Eastern Conference, remains a competitive force, having recently defeated South Georgia Tormenta FC 4-0 in the previous round of the Open Cup. Despite the loss, the Battery's performance in the tournament reflects their strong form in the league, where they finished as runners-up in 2023.
As the teams prepare for their next encounters, the Coffee Pot Cup rivalry continues to thrive, reminding fans of the rich history and passionate competition that defines American soccer. The trophy, a symbol of the fierce competition between D.C. United and Charleston Battery, will undoubtedly be a talking point as both teams look to assert their dominance in future matchups.
Reflecting on the night, fans were left buzzing with excitement. “The energy of the game was off the charts,” said one supporter, encapsulating the atmosphere that surrounded this historic clash.
As D.C. United looks ahead to their next challenge, they can take heart from their performance against Charleston, a reminder of the resilience and skill that has defined their legacy in American soccer.
The Coffee Pot Cup, a trophy born out of rivalry and passion, remains a cherished symbol for both clubs, and as they continue to meet on the pitch, the stories and memories will only grow richer.
