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US Open Cup final a reminder soccer history started long before Messi and MLS

Neither Columbus nor St. Louis is flashy, but both have made huge contributions to the United States' deep soccer history.

By Jon Arnold · Yahoo Sports

Published: Wednesday, 21 October 2026 at 12:02 PM

Key Things to Know

Jon Arnold argues the U.S. Open Cup final highlights American soccer history preceding modern MLS and Lionel Messi.
The 2026 U.S. Open Cup final pits legacy club Columbus Crew against newcomer St. Louis City SC.
The Columbus Crew host St. Louis City SC on Wednesday evening to decide the historic tournament champion.

The Story in 60 Seconds

USA TODAY's Jon Arnold argues that the U.S. Open Cup final demonstrates that American soccer history extends far beyond modern milestones like Lionel Messi or the inception of MLS. The 2026 final features MLS original Columbus Crew hosting recent league addition St. Louis City SC.

Arnold reflects on how the historic tournament highlights deep-rooted traditions in American soccer that predate Major League Soccer, David Beckham, and the 1994 World Cup.

Read the full article on Yahoo Sports

US Open Cup final a reminder soccer history started long before Messi and MLS

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