SD Internacional to Face Laguna United on October 31
The third qualifying round match for the U.S. Open Cup will take place at La Paz Sports Park in Laguna Niguel.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Soccer
Live Poll
Do you plan to attend local soccer matches in your community this season?
SD Internacional and Laguna United are scheduled to meet on October 31, 2026, in the third qualifying round of the U.S. Open Cup. The winner of this matchup advances to the final qualifying round.
Why it matters
Success in these qualifying rounds is essential for advancing to the official opening round of the U.S. Open Cup in 2027. This match represents a critical hurdle for both clubs looking to secure a spot in the national bracket.
SD Internacional enters this round after a 3-0 victory against Chula Vista FC. Their previous meetings with Laguna United include a 5-4 win in the January 2026 UPSL California Cup and two losses in 2024 and 2025.
The players
SD Internacional
Based in Mission Bay, the club is a prominent participant in the UPSL and won the SoCal South crown in both 2023 and 2025.
Laguna United
A soccer club that serves as a regional competitor in the UPSL and frequently squares off against SD Internacional in tournament play.
The details
The match will be hosted at La Paz Sports Park in Laguna Niguel. These teams, which compete in different UPSL conferences, have met previously in both tournament and playoff settings.
Timeline
December 8, 2024: Laguna United defeated SD Internacional 6-2.
November 23, 2025: Laguna United defeated SD Internacional 4-2.
January 2026: SD Internacional defeated Laguna United 5-4.
October 31, 2026: SD Internacional plays Laguna United.
November 21-22, 2026: Final qualifying round of U.S. Open Cup.
Season Trajectory
This match significantly alters the competitive standing for both clubs by eliminating one from the U.S. Open Cup path. The winner moves one step closer to the national bracket, which features 27 U.S.-based MLS clubs.
The result determines which team keeps their U.S. Open Cup dream alive and advances to the final qualifying round scheduled for November 21-22. Fans should note that the victor gains a vital opportunity to play for a spot in the 2027 U.S. Open Cup opening round.
The takeaway
Qualifying rounds serve as the primary gateway for lower-division clubs to compete on a national stage. Teams that maintain consistent squad performance in these high-stakes matches improve their long-term prospects for tournament success.
Further reading
For more background on regional tournament play, see our Soccer coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Times of San Diego.
Live Poll
Do you plan to attend local soccer matches in your community this season?
