Benjamin Lundt Emerges as Hero as St. Louis CITY Claim First U.S. Open Cup Title on Penalties

Reserve goalkeeper Benjamin Lundt turned from backup to savior as St. Louis CITY edged out Columbus Crew in a penalty shootout to win the U.S. Open Cup. The German keeper's crucial saves brought excitement to an otherwise dull final, highlighting St. Louis's patient, process-focused approach to building their team.

Match Recap: A Battle of Endurance and Strategy

For roughly 70 minutes, Columbus Crew pressed hard against St. Louis CITY. This was unexpected given coach Yoann Damet’s style, which favors controlling possession rather than absorbing pressure. Still, St. Louis stood firm. In the final half-hour, the roles reversed as St. Louis launched attacks while Columbus defended resolutely.

When the match went to penalties, Lundt became the star. He saved two attempts, while his teammates converted all five spot-kicks, handing St. Louis their first major trophy—a moment that might spark a new winning era for the club.

Strengths and Shortcomings on Both Sides

Neither team dominated offensively. St. Louis missed key player Rafa Navarro and struggled to create chances upfront. Meanwhile, Columbus lacked a clinical finisher despite midfielder Brais Mendez crafting opportunities. Goalkeeper Roman Burki made several saves before a head injury forced him off, bringing in Lundt who matched his performance.

The two teams mirrored each other tactically, both employing variations of the 3-4-2-1 system. Although Columbus fired four times as many shots, only three were on target, showing their inefficiency. The match was physical, featuring cramps and injury stoppages, ending in the kind of tense shootout only fitting for a final.

Winners and Losers from the Final

• Winner: Yoann DametDamet, the youngest MLS head coach, has emphasized team unity and steady improvement over star power. Back in August, he acknowledged the importance of this trophy for the club's progress. Leading an underdog squad to its first title validates his methodical approach and cements his legacy at St. Louis CITY.
• Loser: Laurent CourtoisTaking over as interim coach mid-season, Courtois faced a tough task managing a squad missing key players like Wissam Abou Ali. His side showed grit but lacked the final touch to secure victory. Despite solid performances from captain Sean Zawadzki and Josef Martinez, they couldn’t finish the job.
• Winner: Benjamin LundtLundt’s story is classic backup heroism. Coming on after Burki’s injury, the tall German had limited involvement during regular time. But in the shootout, his instincts and guesswork led to two vital saves, propelling his team to glory.
• Loser: Rafa NavarroNavarro was cup-tied and unable to play, a big blow for St. Louis CITY. Their $12 million signing impressed in MLS with eight goals in eight games, all from inside the box. His absence left the attack lacking sharpness and finishing ability.
• Winner: Wilfried NancyThough not present, Nancy’s influence on Columbus Crew is clear. Courtois’ tactics reflect Nancy’s style, focusing on ball control and structured build-up. Nancy’s former Sporting Director, Core Wray, shapes St. Louis CITY similarly, showing how coaching philosophies permeate clubs across MLS.
• Loser: The FansFans witnessed a match heavy on tactics but light on excitement. With just six shots on target combined and no attempts in the second half of extra time, the game tested patience. It was a defensive stalemate that many found difficult to enjoy.