With the 2024 seasons in full swing this month, we have put together our favorite away-day matches for the year. As opposed to previous years, this year’s list leans heavily on the intrigue that surrounds the 2024 newcomers. From Bay FC in the NWSL to Rhode Island FC in the USL, we are excited to see what these new clubs and their supporters will bring to U.S. soccer. So if you find yourself seeking some soccer-related travel and want to experience some of the beauty of this sport, here is what we recommend for 2024:
Bay FC vs. Houston Dash – March 30
We were kind of hoping NWSL would give us a Bay FC home opener versus the rowdy supporters of Angel City but even though it isn’t with a California rival, we’re still excited for the first home game for Bay FC. The club has done a great job building excitement since it was first announced and we hope they are yet another example of newer NWSL clubs creating must-see atmospheres.
U.S. Open Cup: TBD vs. Major League Soccer – May 7 and May 8
Without question, this offseason has been a brutal one for local soccer. Major League Soccer has stated that it doesn’t care about the U.S. Open Cup and what it means for the holistic success of soccer in the country. It was a business move, plain and simple. And most clubs and groups have been vocal about their anger toward it. But up until now, it has only been online and in the news. On May 7 and May 8, the eight Major League Soccer teams will enter the U.S. Open Cup Round of 32. We cannot wait to see what the atmosphere is like for the clubs that are lucky enough to draw one of the eight teams at home.
Utah Royals vs. KC Current – May 25
Utah is back. And with a little spice for all you history buffs. In 2017, the professional Kansas City women’s team ceased operations and had to transfer its assets to then-new club Utah. Three years after that, the same thing happened in reverse when that Utah team had to fold and its assets were transferred to build the new version of the Kansas City Current. Now, both cities have their own clubs and we’re hoping this historical back-and-forth will create nice rivalry that will thrive for generations to come.
Indy Eleven vs. Racing Louisville – June 7
Women’s, men’s, it doesn’t matter. There is no love lost between the supporters in Louisville and Indianapolis. Each year when schedules are announced, supporters put a pin in these dates first. And this year will be an interesting one because with the Indy Eleven women’s team making the jump to USL Super League, and Racing Louisville FC remaining a key player in NWSL, it may be the only year we get to see the two women’s teams face off. Not to mention Indy Eleven is coming off of its recent championship win and will be eager to remain the dominant force in the region.
Lionsbridge FC vs. Virginia Beach United FC – July 6
If you don’t already know, Lionsbridge FC has been one of the most successful USL League Two clubs over the last few years. And that’s on the field as well as in the stands. They have been in the top five for league attendance since 2018 and reached the final last year, in addition to a litany of other conference and division accolades. The match against local rival Virginia Beach United FC, aptly named the 757 Derby, is sure to set more attendance record and will be the perfect showcase of what local soccer in the U.S. is all about. Pro tip: If you have the time, head to Virginia early so that you’re in Richmond (only one hour from Newport News) to watch the nationally-televised Henny Derby with the Richmond Kickers hosting Forward Madison.
Rhode Island FC vs. Hartford Athletic – August 10
We all love the potential of a new club. And the anticipation of Rhode Island has been one we have eagerly awaited for a while now. Newcomers Rhode Island FC have already come onto the scene with some great branding and their supporters group, Defiance 1636, is hitting the ground running by building connections (and rivalries) with The Bonanza supporters in Hartford. This derby match is going to be one we try to pencil in for a visit every. single. year.
Tampa Bay Sun FC vs. Fort Lauderdale United – August 2024 (TBD)
We have to put TBD next to this one because the schedule isn’t out yet but we are eagerly awaiting the release of the USL Super league calendar. Some of the teams are already located in regions with successful NWSL clubs so it will be interesting to see how the supporter experience translates but it’s safe to say that there will be some fun local derbies if the two leagues ever decide to compete (slim change but we can always dream!). For now though, we already have one proximity rivalry thanks to year one entrants Tampa Bay Sun FC and Fort Lauderdale United.
Spokane Velocity FC vs. South Georgia Tormenta – September 14
Who is prepared to make the longest away day trip in USL League One? That’s what it will take for any daring South Georgia supporter who wants to make the 38+ hour drive. But it should be worth it. Not many people may know it yet, but Spokane has long been a rabid sports town thanks to the success and support for Gonzaga University. Now, the community has its own professional soccer team to direct that energy. It’s going to be a hike for anyone to get there but the city is gorgeous and we are expecting the Spokane supporters to make ONE Spokane Stadium a tough place to play for everyone.