Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup

Gone for 2012 is the previous qualifying system for MLS clubs.

The top six MLS teams from the previous season used to get an automatic berth, with the remaining MLS teams playing a series of qualifying matches for the last two spots.

Now, all 16 MLS teams based in the United States will play in the third round. Match-ups for who the MLS teams play will be geographically based.

The soonest two MLS teams could play each other would be the fourth round.