Trending Now - Leagues Cup 2026 to Feature MLS and LIGA MX Matches in Mexico

WHO:

Major League Soccer (MLS)

LIGA MX

Club Toluca

Tigres UANL

Club América

Inter Miami CF

CF Monterrey

Germán Berterame (Designated Player for Inter Miami)

WHAT:

The 2026 Leagues Cup will feature matches between MLS and LIGA MX teams.

The tournament will consist of 54 matches during Phase One.

The top four clubs from each league will advance to the knockout rounds.

The tournament will maintain a "No Ties" format, with penalty shootouts determining winners in case of a tie after regulation time.

The champion and the top three finishers will qualify for the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup.

WHERE:

Matches will be held in Mexico for the first time, specifically at:

Estadio Nemesio Díez (Club Toluca)

Estadio Banorte (Club América)

Estadio Universitario (Tigres UANL)

Other matches will take place at various MLS venues.

WHEN:

Phase One: August 4 - 13, 2026

Quarterfinals: August 25 - 27, 2026

Semifinals: September 1 - 2, 2026

Third-Place Match: September 6, 2026

Final: September 6, 2026

WHY:

The tournament aims to enhance competition between MLS and LIGA MX, raising the stakes with a new format introduced in 2025.

HOW:

Teams will play three matches against opponents from the rival league in Phase One.

Points are awarded as follows: one point for a regulation tie, two points for a penalty shootout win, and three points for a regulation win.

Tiebreakers, such as goal differential, may be used to determine standings.

The 2026 Leagues Cup is set to showcase an exciting competition between Major League Soccer and LIGA MX teams, featuring 54 matches in Phase One from August 4 to 13, 2026. For the first time, matches will be held in Mexico at venues like Estadio Nemesio Díez, Estadio Banorte, and Estadio Universitario, with the top four clubs from each league advancing to knockout rounds. The tournament will maintain a "No Ties" format, with penalty shootouts deciding winners if matches end in a tie, and the champion along with the top three finishers will qualify for the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup.