Des Moines Menace, a USL League Two team, has assembled a squad of retired ex-USMNT players like Sacha Kljestan for the U.S. Open Cup, showcasing a unique mix of experience and nostalgia.

By the Numbers
  • The Menace, mainly comprising NCAA players, advanced in the U.S. Open Cup after a penalty shootout victory over Capo, with Kljestan providing an assist and converting a crucial penalty.
  • Players like A.J. DeLaGarza, Roger Espinoza, and Tesho Akindele have recently joined the Menace, enhancing the team's skill and experience.
Yes, But

While the Menace's roster of ex-professionals adds excitement, their success in the U.S. Open Cup may be limited as they face formidable opponents like Union Omaha with a history of defeating MLS teams.

State of Play
  • Des Moines Menace, under the leadership of Kljestan, continues to recruit more retired players for their U.S. Open Cup campaign.
  • The team's progress in the tournament has generated interest and spotlight on the U.S. Open Cup, highlighting the appeal of assembling a squad of Open Cup legends.
What's Next

As the Menace prepares for their second-round match against Union Omaha, the future holds the potential for more retired players to join the team if they continue advancing in the competition.

Bottom Line

Des Moines Menace's innovative approach of uniting ex-USMNT players for the U.S. Open Cup not only adds flair to the tournament but also creates an intriguing narrative of veterans coming out of retirement for a shot at glory.