Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:
USOC: NY Derby, FCD squeaker & a few surprises
Fifteen MLS teams did US Open Cup battle on Wednesday night. Among the highlights: the Red Bulls edging another New York derby win, holders FC Dallas squeaking through on a late own goal, and big upsets pulled off by FC Cincinnati and Miami FC. RECAPS & MORE
You can watch the round-of-16 draw live on US Soccer's Facebook page (facebook.com/officialussoccer) at 11 a.m. ET on Thursday morning. READ MORE
Vancouver's inspirational new training digs
There is an intentional divide between first team territory and the prospects built into the Vancouver Whitecaps' snazzy new training facility. The club is hoping their blueprint choices will serve as an inspiration to the youngsters hoping to grow into pros. READ MORE | PHOTO GALLERY
Arena drops Gold Cup roster hints
Speaking with Sports Illustrated scribe Grant Wahl, US national team boss Bruce Arena offered some clues about how he's approaching squad selection for next month's CONCACAF Gold Cup. READ MORE
Analyze this, that and the other
In his weekly Twitter Q&A session, Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle covers a wide range of topics including the U.S. Open Cup, Cyle Larin's Canada struggles, Roman Torres's form and the USMNT's midfield make-up. READ MORE
LAFC aim to unite city
They do not yet have a coach or a stadium, and they've only signed two players thus far, but FourFourTwo writes that 2018 expansion side LAFC has gotten a headstart on repping the City of Angels by gathering the disenfranchised fans all across town. READ MORE
NYCFC, OCSC honored for community works
A pair of MLS clubs have been spotlighted for recognition by ESPN's Sports Humanitarian of the Year Awards. New York City FC are one of four nominess for the Sports Humanitarian Team of the Year, while Orlando City are one of three Stuart Scott ENSPIRE Award honorees. READ MORE
The world's only undefeated club
The New York Times profiles Asbury Park FC, a club originally invented by former MLS social media guru Shawn Francis and his pal Ian Perkins as a joke. Though "the Tillies" have no team and play no games, they've become a true New Jersey phenomenon. READ MORE
MLSsoccer.com Must-Watch
Philly forward CJ Sapong takes the Crossbar Challenge … with a fan
