Everyone loves an underdog, and at this year’s U.S. Open Cup, that beloved underdog might just be El Farolito. And, no, that’s not just the name of a bar at 24 Mission Street in San Francisco though it is also that.
Taquería El Farolito is the name of a restaurant and a surprisingly good fútbol team, at least historically so. Founded in 1985, and first registered with the San Francisco Soccer Football League, the team was very successful in that league, going on to win it in 1991-92 and then winning the U.S. Open Cup in 1993. Currently, they play in the National Premier Soccer League, generally considered the fourth tier of U.S. fútbol.
But history is one thing, the present is another. And the present has been fun for El Farolito too. On March 19th, they beat the Portland Timbers 2-1 to advance past the second round of the U.S. Open Cup for the first time since 1995. Now, they’ve done it again, beating Central Valley Fuego FC 2-1, to make it past the third round. How far can Cinderella dream of getting?
Forward Dembor Benson, of Honduras, was instrumental in both games, scoring the winning goal against Central Valley FC. The team will learn who they’re playing in the next game during the draw, which takes place on Thursday.
The internet certainly loves this Cinderella story and hopes it doesn’t end anytime soon. There’s praise for Benson’s composure, and comments like: “El Farolito keep flying”
And in the end, this is the best promo for the business possible. Plus, isn’t “Burrito Brava” the best name for a fan group?
People are even asking for merch.
While making burrito jokes.
Mostly, people want more El Farolito.