The Leagues Cup is making a return, reigniting the rivalry between MLS and Liga MX, but this time with a fresh twist!
From July 29th to August 31st, all 18 Liga MX clubs will compete, joined by 18 teams from MLS. For the first time, each club will face three opponents from the other league in the opening phase.
In another change, teams will earn points within their respective league tables, with victories for MLS clubs also benefiting Liga MX teams. The top four from each league will advance to the knockout stages.
As expected, several teams are favorites to advance and possibly win the tournament. Here, we highlight ten standout teams from both leagues, predicting their journeys through the knockout stages and who might lift the trophy on August 31st. Let’s get started!
Teams to Watch from Liga MX
Sergio Ramos will be a key player in Monterrey’s defense. (Photo: Azael Rodriguez/Getty Images)
America
In high-stakes matches, this team rarely falters. Las Aguilas is the most successful club in Liga MX, clinching three of the last four league titles. With Henry Martin as a consistent goal-scorer, Alvaro Fidalgo orchestrating play in midfield, and Lewis Maragon recognized as one of the top goalkeepers in Concacaf, they are a formidable opponent.
Blue Cross
Although they have faced challenges in Liga MX, La Máquina possesses significant depth. Building on their recent Concacaf Champions Cup win, they have standouts like goalkeeper Kevin Mier and prolific scorer Angel Sepulveda.
Monterrey
A team with a deep roster, Monterrey has recently competed at the Club World Cup with better results on the international stage than in the league. Veteran defender Sergio Ramos leads the backline, while midfielder Sergio Canales is a brilliant playmaker, complemented by goal-scoring sensation German Belterame.
UANL Tigers
Tigres have long been synonymous with success, showing no signs of slowing down in a competitive tournament setting. With the recent signing of Angel Correa from Atletico Madrid, they continue to seek top talent, even as injuries may sideline stars like Andre-Pierre Gignac.
Toluca
The team that halted America’s quest for a Liga MX Four-Peat, Toluca enters the tournament as reigning champions, fueled by star striker Paulinho, who netted 13 goals last season and received the league’s Ballon d’Or. Alexis Vega led the league in assists, contributing greatly to the team’s success.
Pumas UNAM
A historically significant club in Liga MX, Pumas is a dark horse to watch this season. With recent signings and a quest for resurgence, they may pose a considerable threat despite a slow start.
Teams to Watch from MLS
Can Lionel Messi secure another League Cup title? (Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
FC Cincinnati
Evander’s impressive performance (15 goals this season) has positioned him as an MVP favorite, while Cincinnati steadily climbs the league standings. However, the absence of Kevin Denkey due to injury may hamper their midfield depth as they prepare to face Liga MX clubs.
Columbus Crew
The anticipated arrival of forward Wessam Abdi could enhance their attacking strategies. As previous Leagues Cup Champions, the Crew seeks to bolster their trophy cabinet further this season.
Inter Miami
Lionel Messi led Miami to its first trophy two years ago, and the recent addition of Rodrigo de Paul promises more championship experience. The hope is that Messi and his teammates will rise to the occasion against Liga MX opposition.
LAFC
On paper, LAFC boasts an impressive roster and experience in tournament conditions. However, with defender Aaron Long sidelined, the team’s backline may face challenges, despite Hugo Lloris guarding the goal. Forward Denis Bouanga has consistently been a scoring threat, amassing over 20 goals across three seasons.
San Diego FC
Could this first-year team clinch the trophy? They have maintained a position near the top of the Western standings all season, using their momentum as they approach the tournament. While Chucky Lozano garners attention, Danish midfielder Anders Drager is noteworthy, leading MLS with 16 assists and scoring 11 goals of his own.
Knockout Round Predictions
America is determined to secure their first League Cup win. (Photo: Manuel Velasquez/Getty Images)
Quarterfinals
America vs. Columbus
LAFC vs. Toluca
Monterrey vs. San Diego
Inter Miami vs. Cruz Azul
Three Liga MX teams emerge from the quarterfinals, with Miami as the only MLS representative remaining. The depth and experience of the Liga MX teams provide them with a crucial advantage similar to that seen in the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Semi-finals
America vs. Toluca
Inter Miami vs. Monterrey
A showdown between Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos is on the horizon, promising a thrilling encounter. Miami aims for victory to secure a place in the finals, while Club America seeks redemption against Toluca for thwarting their four-peat ambitions.
Final
Inter Miami vs. America
This final is a highly anticipated matchup: Mexico’s most successful football club faces off against Miami. Messi is expected to deliver a standout performance, but Las Aguilas may just soar past Miami to claim this year’s League Cup.
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Fan Take: This year’s Leagues Cup not only continues the intense rivalry between MLS and Liga MX but also introduces an intriguing format that could reshape how we view cross-league matchups. As teams compete for glory, fans can look forward to thrilling matches that showcase the best talent in North American soccer.
