Many may not be aware, but the Des Moines Menace boast some notable names on their roster, including retired MLS stars Sacha Kljestan and Benny Feilhaber. The team is set on making an impact in the U.S. Open Cup, but a major challenge lies in the fact that these players have never played together before.
The Menace kick off the 110th edition of the Open Cup on Wednesday in a first-round match against Sporting Kansas City II. Alongside Kljestan and Feilhaber, other retired stars on the Des Moines team include Dax McCarty, Osvaldo Alonso, Justin Meram, Matt Hedges, A.J. DeLaGarza, and Bradley Wright-Phillips.
Gathering in Kansas City for a lone practice session on Tuesday night, the team faces the task of determining which players, many in their late 30s and early 40s, can endure a full 90 minutes on the field. Fortunately, Feilhaber, the former head coach of Sporting KC II, provides valuable insights into their upcoming opponents.
Competing in the fourth tier of the American soccer pyramid in USL League Two, the Menace’s summer season attracts numerous elite college players seeking to stay active during the offseason. While the MLS stars do not occupy regular roster spots and do not receive compensation, their presence is expected to elevate the team’s profile and merchandise sales.
Last year, Kljestan connected with the Menace through a former player at a gym in Southern California. Despite not having played competitively for over a year, he was convinced by GM Charlie Bales to join the team for the 2024 Open Cup. Following a victory in their first match, the Menace fell in the subsequent round to Union Omaha.
Encouraged by Feilhaber, Kljestan decided to return for another season and recruited additional ex-MLS All-Stars to join the squad. This collective effort aims to make a serious impact in the competition.
Established in 1914, the Open Cup is the oldest soccer tournament in the United States, featuring teams from various levels, including amateur clubs like the Menace. While MLS had considered withdrawing senior teams, recent years have seen their return, with 16 MLS squads participating in the current edition.
Expressing his admiration for the Open Cup, Kljestan emphasized the competition’s historical significance and was pleased to see MLS teams back in the mix. Reflecting on past finals, he praised the intense atmosphere and eagerly anticipates the upcoming matches.
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