Leagues Cup 2025: Your Ultimate Guide

Leagues Cup Expands to 36 Teams in 2025, Rewrites Format for MLS–Liga MX Showdowns

Leagues Cup is set to undergo a notable transformation for it’s 2025 edition, expanding to include 36 participating clubs and introducing a new format designed to heighten the rivalry between Major League Soccer (MLS) and Mexico’s Liga MX.

The tournament, which has fast become a cornerstone of North American club soccer, will now feature 18 teams from MLS and 18 from Liga MX. The selection process for MLS clubs will be based on qualification for the MLS cup playoffs, with nine teams advancing from each conference. This expansion signals a major step in integrating the two leagues and providing a more thorough platform for competition.

A key change in the new format is the elimination of intra-league matches in the initial phase. The first stage of the 2025 Leagues Cup will exclusively feature inter-league clashes,pitting MLS teams against Liga MX counterparts. This strategic move aims to amplify the marquee MLS vs. Liga MX narrative that has defined the tournament’s appeal.

The Leagues Cup has already witnessed historic moments since its inception. The 2019 edition saw Cruz Azul emerge as the inaugural champion. In 2021,Seattle Sounders FC lifted the trophy,followed by Inter Miami CF’s triumphant debut in 2023,a year that coincided with lionel Messi’s arrival in MLS and his immediate impact on the tournament. Columbus Crew continued the trend of MLS success in the 2024 edition, adding another title just months after securing the runner-up position in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

Beyond the on-field action, the Leagues Cup serves as a crucial pathway to continental glory. The finalists of the 2025 tournament, along with the winner of the third-place match, will earn berths in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup.The Leagues Cup champion will receive a direct pass to the Round of 16 of the prestigious regional competition.

Fans seeking ticketing facts are encouraged to visit LeaguesCup.com and the official websites of the MLS host clubs. MLS season ticket holders will receive direct dialog from their respective clubs regarding details pertaining to their season plans.Evergreen Insight: The evolution of the Leagues Cup mirrors a broader trend in global football: the increasing integration and commercialization of regional leagues. By creating a dedicated, high-stakes competition between the top clubs of MLS and Liga MX, the tournament not only elevates the profile of both leagues but also taps into a passionate fan base eager to see these two footballing cultures clash. This expansion and format refinement demonstrate a commitment to deepening the competitive and commercial ties between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, ultimately strengthening the North American soccer landscape. The focus on inter-league play in the early stages is a calculated strategy to maximize the inherent rivalry, ensuring that each match carries significant weight and narrative appeal. As the tournament matures, its impact on player advancement, club prestige, and fan engagement is likely to grow.

How does the Leagues Cup tournament format differ from a typical league season?

What is Leagues Cup?

leagues Cup is a unique adn rapidly growing football (soccer) tournament pitting teams from Major League Soccer (MLS) against Liga MX, the top professional league in Mexico. Established in 2019, it’s more than just a pleasant competition; the winner secures a spot in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The 2025 edition promises to be the biggest yet,building on the momentum of previous years and offering a thrilling spectacle for fans of North American soccer. Expect intense rivalries, passionate crowds, and high-stakes matches.

2025 Tournament Format & Schedule

The 2025 Leagues Cup will feature 32 clubs – all 29 MLS teams and three Liga MX clubs. The tournament will be structured as follows:

Group Stage: Teams will be divided into groups,playing a round-robin format. Specific group compositions will be announced closer to the tournament start date.

Knockout Rounds: Following the group stage, the top teams will advance to a knockout bracket, culminating in the final match.

Dates: The tournament is scheduled to run from July 18th to September 20th, 2025.

Venues: Matches will be hosted across various MLS stadiums in the United States and Canada, offering fans convenient access to the action. specific venue assignments will be announced by the Leagues Cup organizers.

Participating Teams (Confirmed & Expected)

While the full roster will be finalized closer to the event, here’s a look at confirmed and expected participants:

MLS Teams (29):

LA Galaxy

LAFC

inter Miami CF

Orlando City SC

Atlanta United FC

columbus Crew

Seattle Sounders FC

Portland Timbers

houston Dynamo FC

FC Dallas

Real Salt Lake

Sporting Kansas City

Minnesota United FC

Nashville SC

Philadelphia Union

New York Red Bulls

New York City FC

Chicago Fire FC

D.C. United

New England Revolution

CF Montréal

Toronto FC

San Jose earthquakes

Austin FC

Colorado Rapids

Charlotte FC

St. Louis City SC

Cincinnati FC

Vancouver Whitecaps FC

Liga MX Teams (3):

Club América

Tigres UANL

Monterrey (Likely, based on recent participation)

Key Players to Watch in Leagues cup 2025

The Leagues Cup consistently attracts top talent from both MLS and Liga MX. Here are a few players to keep an eye on:

Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF): Arguably the biggest name in the tournament, Messi’s presence guarantees excitement and draws important viewership.

Julián Quiñones (América): A prolific goalscorer for Club América, Quiñones is a constant threat to opposing defenses.

Héctor Herrera (Houston Dynamo FC): A seasoned midfielder with a wealth of experience, Herrera dictates the tempo for Houston.

Carlos Vela (LAFC): A veteran and consistent performer, Vela’s skill and creativity make him a key player for LAFC.

Andre Shinyashiki (Charlotte FC): A dynamic forward known for his pace and finishing ability.

Leagues Cup History & Past Winners

Understanding the tournament’s history provides context for the 2025 edition:

2019: Liga MX teams dominated, with Cruz Azul defeating Tigres UANL in the final.

2021: León (Liga MX) triumphed over Pumas UNAM (Liga MX) in an all-Mexican final.

2023: Inter Miami CF (MLS) shocked the soccer world, winning the tournament led by Lionel Messi. This victory marked the first time an MLS team had won the Leagues Cup.

This history demonstrates the competitive balance between the leagues and the potential for upsets.

How to Watch Leagues Cup 2025

Leagues Cup 2025 will be broadcast on the following platforms:

Apple TV: Apple TV remains the primary broadcast partner for MLS and Leagues Cup, offering live coverage of all matches. A subscription is required.

FOX Sports: Select matches will also be broadcast on FOX and FS1, providing broader accessibility for viewers.

Univision: Spanish-language coverage will be available on Univision and TUDN.

MLS Season Pass: Access to all Leagues Cup matches is included with the MLS season Pass subscription on apple TV.

Benefits of Attending a Leagues Cup Match

Attending a Leagues Cup match offers a unique and immersive experience:

Witness Elite Soccer: see some of the best players in North America compete at a high level.

**Experience vibrant Atmosphere