Westchester SC Eliminated from U.S. Open Cup in Third Round

Hamtramck, Mich. — Westchester SC‘s journey in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup concluded on Wednesday night, as they fell to Detroit City FC 3-1 in the third round at Keyworth Stadium.

The first-year USL League One team struggled against the experienced USL Championship side, allowing two late goals that sealed their exit from the tournament. Jeciel Cedeno, a second-half substitute, broke a 1-1 deadlock in the 85th minute, with Darren Smith adding an insurance goal four minutes into stoppage time.

Cedeno’s decisive goal came from a set piece after Alassane Diouf was fouled in the box, allowing him to drill his shot into the upper left corner past Westchester goalkeeper Dane Jacomen. Smith capitalized on a defensive error by Westchester to slip the ball into an open net, confirming Detroit’s dominance.

Detroit had initially taken the lead in the 71st minute when Morey Doner fired home a left-wing cross from Jay Chapman. Despite the mounting pressure, Westchester quickly responded five minutes later, with Juan Obregon scoring in his third consecutive cup match. The forward found the net with a stunning 22-yard shot, looping the ball into the upper left corner past keeper Carlos Saldana.

Throughout the match, Detroit City outshot Westchester with a significant margin of 24-6, converting three of their shots on target. Detroit’s control over the game was especially evident in the first half, where they outpaced Westchester 10-1 in shots, yet struggled to convert their chances.

Westchester’s only shot on goal in the first half came from a weak roller by Noah Powder just three minutes into the second half. Meanwhile, Sebastian Guenzatti’s attempt at a bicycle kick inside the box in the 54th minute sailed wide right, exemplifying the challenge the team faced against their opponents.

Michael Lewis, editor of Front Row Soccer, provided coverage of the match and has a remarkable history in sports journalism. Having reported on 13 World Cups and multiple Olympic Games, Lewis is a well-respected figure in soccer media, known for his expertise and contributions to notable publications.