Where to Watch, Presenters & Pundits: Austin FC v Nashville SC – US Open Cup Final 2025

Football fans in the UK will be treated to a slice of American soccer drama in the early hours of Thursday, 2 October 2025, as Texas-based Austin FC take on Tennessee’s Nashville SC in the historic Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Final. Kicking off at 01:05 UK time, this winner-takes-all showdown will see both clubs chasing their first major trophy, with a place in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup also at stake[1]. Notably, the traditional British broadcasters—BBC, ITV, Sky Sports, and TNT—are not carrying this fixture. Instead, UK-based viewers with access to a VPN or a global streaming subscription should consider CBS Sports Network in the US or the Paramount+ platform, both broadcasting the match live[4].

Who’s Who in the Commentary Booth and Studio?

While the U.S. Open Cup might lack the Premier League’s glitz on British screens, the production remains world-class—and so does the broadcast team. Leading the coverage is Poppy Miller, who serves as the presenter for both CBS Sports Network and Paramount+. Miller, a respected sports anchor in the States, has become a fixture for major football events and is known for her calm authority and insightful interviews.

In the commentary box, Chris Wittyngham takes the lead. Wittyngham has rapidly forged a reputation as one of the most knowledgeable voices in North American soccer, having earned plaudits for his tactical acumen and engaging delivery on broadcasts covering MLS and international competitions. Joining him is Tony Meola, a legendary figure in U.S. soccer as a goalkeeper for the national team across three World Cups and a former MLS Cup winner in 2003. Meola’s co-commentary is filled with first-hand insights from a stellar playing career.

The studio team is packed with seasoned professionals. Mike Grella, who starred for Leeds United in the English Football League before returning to MLS, offers an Anglo-American perspective. Grella’s analysis is particularly valued for his transatlantic experience. Charlie Davies, a former U.S. international and standout for Sochaux in France, survived a life-threatening car crash in 2009 to make a remarkable comeback—his resilience and insight make him a standout pundit. Completing the trio is Jimmy Conrad, a former MLS defender and U.S. international, who has become a beloved figure in American soccer media for his sharp wit and tactical breakdowns.

On the touchline, Aly Trost—known for her dynamic pitchside reporting and in-depth player interviews—rounds out the broadcast team.

The Teams: Paths to the Final

Austin FC and Nashville SC arrive at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, as first-time finalists in the U.S. Open Cup, America’s oldest soccer tournament. For the home side, the journey has been nothing short of thrilling[2]. Austin’s campaign was nearly derailed in the Round of 32, where they came back from 2-0 down against El Paso Locomotive to win 3-2, before edging past Houston Dynamo and stunning San Jose Earthquakes in a penalty shootout. Their semifinal clash with Minnesota United went all the way to extra time, with a dramatic 120th-minute winner sealing their place in the showpiece[2][4].

Nashville’s route, while less last-gasp, was equally impressive. After dispatching Chattanooga Red Wolves of USL League One, Nashville took down three MLS opponents: Orlando City, D.C. United (scoring four goals in the process), and the in-form Philadelphia Union, whom they defeated 3-1 in the semifinals[3][4]. English striker Sam Surridge has been pivotal, notching a hat-trick against the Union and a double against D.C. United[3].

The meeting is a rematch of a recent MLS regular season contest, which Nashville won 2-0 in August 2024[1]. However, this final is a different beast, with both teams led by rookie head coaches—both of whom cut their teeth as assistants under former U.S. national team boss Gregg Berhalter[2].

What’s at Stake?

Both clubs are hunting their first major silverware. For Austin, merely reaching the final is a landmark in their still-young history, while Nashville came close in the 2023 Leagues Cup, losing to Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami[1]. The winner will grab the trophy, prize money, and automatic entry into the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, North America’s top club competition—making this a potentially transformative moment for either franchise[1].

The U.S. Open Cup’s unique format—open to all professional and amateur teams—means this is more than a clash of MLS teams, but a true test of American soccer’s breadth and depth. Winning teams are bestowed the historic Lamar Hunt Trophy, named after the influential sports mogul whose investments helped shape the modern U.S. soccer landscape.

How to Watch in the UK

UK-based fans keen to watch the action live face a challenge. The main English-language broadcasters are not carrying the match, so viewers will need to access CBS Sports Network or the Paramount+ streaming service. Subscribers with a VPN or those with access to an American account can tune in directly. Coverage begins at 00:05 UK time with a pre-match show, followed by the match at 01:05[4]. The production will be available on-demand shortly after for those unable to catch it live.

There is no world feed announced, nor is there a British commentary option. This means American voices—and perspectives—will dominate, making for an immersive U.S. soccer experience even for UK viewers.

Meet the Broadcast Team

Poppy Miller has become a familiar face for live football on CBS, especially in high-profile MLS and international competitions. Her background as a versatile sports anchor—covering everything from basketball to soccer—brings a broad perspective to her presentations.

Chris Wittyngham has built his reputation through podcasts and digital broadcasts before moving into TV commentary. His deep knowledge of the domestic game in the States, plus international football, has made him a go-to voice for CBS.

Tony Meola is a genuine U.S. soccer legend. The goalkeeper played in three World Cups (1990, 1994, 2002), won MLS Cup with Kansas City, and was a trailblazer for American goalkeepers abroad. Since retiring, he has transitioned into commentary, offering expert analysis from a player’s viewpoint.

Mike Grella—while never a Premier League star—was a cult hero at Leeds United, scoring a memorable goal against Liverpool at Anfield. His MLS journey included spells with New York Red Bulls and Columbus Crew, and after retiring, he has become a respected analyst, particularly on transatlantic soccer matters.

Charlie Davies’s story is one of resilience. Ahead of the 2010 World Cup, he survived a horrific car crash that nearly ended his life and career. His comeback, which included a stint at D.C. United, is inspirational, and his punditry reflects both bravery and insight.

Jimmy Conrad was a mainstay in MLS defenses and earned 28 caps for the U.S. His media career has been marked by humour and tactical intelligence, making complex concepts accessible to new and hardcore fans alike.

Aly Trost is among the most recognisable field reporters in U.S. soccer. Her post-match interviews and live updates are a staple of major fixtures.

What to Expect on the Pitch

Expect a tense, physical battle. Austin’s defense is among the stingiest in MLS this season, having conceded just 34 goals—the fewest in the Western Conference[2]. Nashville, meanwhile, have a potent attack led by Surridge, who has been in red-hot form in the Cup run[3].

Tactically, both sides are in their third season under new managers, both of whom emphasise defensive organisation and quick transitions. Set pieces and individual quality could prove decisive in what promises to be a closely fought contest.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 U.S. Open Cup Final is a landmark occasion for both clubs, a rare chance to etch their names into American soccer history. For UK-based fans, it’s also a window into the growth and excitement of football across the Atlantic, with a broadcast team that blends experience, insight, and personality.

To learn more about the competition itself, visit the official U.S. Soccer U.S. Open Cup page. For team news and stats, explore the MLS official site, and to understand the legacy behind the Lamar Hunt Trophy, check out the Texas Observer’s profile of Lamar Hunt.

Grab your streaming device, turn on CBS Sports Network or Paramount+, and enjoy a night of history-making soccer—American-style.