Where to Watch FC Naples vs Tampa Bay Rowdies in the US Open Cup: CBS Sports Golazo and Paramount+ Coverage

Football fans in the UK eager to catch the US Open Cup clash between FC Naples and Tampa Bay Rowdies on April 16, 2025 (00:05 UK time) will need to tune into American broadcasters, as no British channels are covering the match. The game will be shown live on CBS Sports Golazo Network in the US, with streaming available via Paramount+.

The coverage will be fronted by experienced presenter Nate Bukaty, a well-known voice in American soccer broadcasting. Bukaty has built a strong reputation covering MLS and US soccer for various networks, including CBS Sports and ESPN. He will be joined by a trio of knowledgeable pundits: former US international goalkeeper Tony Meola, ex-striker Charlie Davies, and retired Sierra Leone international midfielder Michael Lahoud.

Meet the CBS Sports Golazo Team

Tony Meola brings a wealth of experience to the broadcast, having earned 100 caps for the US national team and appearing in three World Cups (1990, 1994, and 2002). The former goalkeeper was part of the famous 2002 squad that reached the quarter-finals in South Korea/Japan. After retiring, Meola transitioned into punditry and coaching, including a stint as head coach of Jacksonville Armada.

Charlie Davies, who played as a forward for the US national team and in Europe for clubs like Hammarby and Sochaux, offers an attacker's perspective. His career was tragically interrupted by a near-fatal car accident in 2009, but he remarkably returned to play professionally again. Davies has become a respected analyst since retiring, known for his insightful breakdowns of attacking play.

Completing the team is Michael Lahoud, who enjoyed a solid MLS career with clubs including Chivas USA and Philadelphia Union while earning 19 caps for Sierra Leone. The midfielder-turned-pundit provides tactical analysis and has become a regular on CBS Sports' soccer coverage since retiring in 2019.

About the US Open Cup

The Lamar Hunt US Open Cup is America's oldest ongoing national soccer competition, first held in 1914. Open to all professional and amateur teams affiliated with U.S. Soccer, it follows a knockout format similar to England's FA Cup. This match represents an interesting clash between lower-league sides, with both FC Naples and Tampa Bay Rowdies looking to progress in the tournament.

How to Watch in the UK

While British broadcasters aren't showing this particular US Open Cup fixture, UK-based fans can access the coverage through Paramount+ with a subscription. The streaming service carries extensive coverage of American soccer, including MLS and US national team matches. Alternatively, some fans may choose to use a VPN to access CBS Sports Golazo Network's coverage.

For those unfamiliar with CBS Sports' soccer coverage, their Golazo Network has become a significant player in American soccer broadcasting since its launch, offering dedicated 24/7 coverage of the sport with a mix of live games, highlights, and analysis shows.

What to Expect From the Match

This US Open Cup encounter promises an intriguing battle between two ambitious teams. FC Naples, representing Florida's growing soccer scene, will look to cause an upset against the more established Tampa Bay Rowdies, who play in the USL Championship (America's second division). The Rowdies have a rich history dating back to the original NASL in the 1970s and will be favourites, but cup competitions often produce surprises.

With an experienced broadcast team led by Nate Bukaty and featuring three former professionals who understand the unique challenges of American soccer's pyramid, viewers can expect insightful commentary and analysis. The pundits' varied backgrounds - from Meola's goalkeeping expertise to Davies' attacking insight and Lahoud's midfield perspective - should provide a well-rounded view of the action.

While British fans might be more accustomed to the Premier League coverage on Sky Sports, TNT Sports, or the BBC, this match offers a chance to experience American soccer's unique cup competition and broadcasting style. The early morning kick-off time (00:05 UK time) means dedicated supporters might need to set their alarms or record the action to enjoy later.