CHICAGO – A controversy and potential scandal has arisen in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup.
U.S. Soccer has announced Thursday’s draw to determine hosts for semifinals and hosting priority for the final was postponed.
The decision comes as a result of a protest filed by the Portland Timbers in relation to the number of foreign players fielded by Los Angeles Football Club during the quarterfinal at Banc of America Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif. Wednesday night.
LAFC won the game, 3-2.
The exact nature of Portland’s protest was not immediately know. Open Cup rules state that teams are allowed to dress only five players per game during the competition.
The U.S. Open Cup adjudication and discipline panel will review the matter as soon as possible, according to the U.S. Soccer Federation.
The exact time of the draw will be determined in the near future, the federation said.