Where to Watch Austin FC vs El Paso Locomotive US Open Cup Clash with Mark Schoenster and Ross Devonport

Football fans in the UK looking to catch the US Open Cup action between Austin FC and El Paso Locomotive on May 8, 2025, at 01:30 BST will need to tune in to Paramount+. The match will be broadcast exclusively on the US-based streaming service, with British viewers able to access it through a VPN if they have a subscription.

Leading the commentary team for this fixture is experienced broadcaster Mark Schoenster, who has built a strong reputation covering Major League Soccer and US football over the years. Schoenster, known for his energetic and insightful commentary style, has been a staple of American soccer coverage for over a decade. He's joined in the booth by former player and analyst Ross Devonport, whose playing career included spells in the USL Championship before transitioning into media work.

About the Commentary Team

Mark Schoenster began his broadcasting career in local radio before moving up to national MLS coverage. His distinctive voice and ability to capture the drama of big moments have made him one of the most recognisable commentators in American soccer. Schoenster has called numerous US Open Cup matches throughout his career, including several finals, bringing his trademark enthusiasm to the historic competition.

Co-commentator Ross Devonport brings valuable on-field perspective to the broadcast. The English-born former midfielder played professionally in the US lower leagues before moving into journalism and broadcasting. His tactical insight and understanding of the US soccer pyramid make him particularly well-suited to analyse cup competitions like the US Open Cup, where lower-league teams often face MLS opposition.

The US Open Cup: America's Oldest Soccer Competition

First contested in 1914, the US Open Cup is the longest-running soccer competition in the United States. Modelled after England's FA Cup, it features teams from all levels of the American soccer pyramid, from amateur sides to MLS clubs. The tournament has grown in prestige in recent years, with the winners earning a CONCACAF Champions Cup spot.

This particular matchup sees Austin FC, who joined MLS in 2021, take on USL Championship side El Paso Locomotive. While Austin are the clear favourites as an MLS club, the magic of cup competitions means El Paso will be dreaming of an upset. The Locomotive have established themselves as one of the stronger teams in the USL Championship since their founding in 2019.

How to Watch in the UK

Unlike major European competitions which are often picked up by British broadcasters like ITV, BBC, Sky Sports or TNT Sports, the US Open Cup isn't routinely shown on UK television. For this match, British viewers will need to access Paramount+, which holds the US broadcasting rights. Some VPN services may allow UK-based fans to access the stream, though viewers should check the legality of this in their region.

For those unable to watch live, highlights are typically available after the match through the MLS website and official US Open Cup channels. The delayed nature of the broadcast (early morning UK time) might actually suit some British fans who prefer to watch recorded coverage at a more reasonable hour.

What to Expect From the Match

This US Open Cup encounter promises an interesting contrast in styles. Austin FC, under the guidance of their experienced coaching staff, will likely look to dominate possession and use their superior technical quality. Their roster includes several players with European experience, giving them an edge in terms of pedigree.

El Paso Locomotive, meanwhile, will rely on their physicality and team cohesion to try and spring a surprise. The USL Championship side may not have the star names of their MLS opponents, but cup competitions have shown time and again that determination and tactical discipline can overcome individual quality.

The commentary team of Schoenster and Devonport should provide excellent coverage of these contrasting approaches, with Devonport's playing experience particularly valuable in analysing how the underdogs might approach the game. Schoenster's ability to build tension and excitement will serve the broadcast well if the match becomes a close contest.

Conclusion

While British football fans might be more accustomed to tuning into domestic cup competitions, the US Open Cup offers an intriguing alternative for those interested in the growth of soccer across the Atlantic. The combination of Mark Schoenster's experienced commentary and Ross Devonport's analytical insight should make for an entertaining broadcast, even if UK viewers need to jump through some hoops to access it.

With the potential for cup magic and an underdog story, this late-night/early-morning fixture could prove surprisingly compelling for British audiences willing to stay up or set their alarms for some Stateside soccer action.