The exciting matchups for the Leagues Cup quarterfinals have been set. The battle for regional supremacy is more evenly matched than ever, pitting four Liga MX teams against four MLS contenders. However, the qualifying round was full of drama, disappointments, and last-minute advances.
The ghost strikes again: Cruz Azul fail to capitalize
Just when it seemed they had everything under control, “La Máquina” stumbled over the same stone once again. Cruz Azul needed only a draw to secure their spot in the next round, but they fell 2-1 to the Chicago Fire in a truly nightmarish finish.
Forward Nicolás Ibáñez seemed to have saved the night by scoring the equalizer in the 81st minute, restoring calm to the Cruz Azul fans. However, Puso Dithejane became the Mexicans’ nemesis. After scoring the first goal of the match, he reappeared in stoppage time to net the winning goal and seal a painful last-minute elimination for Cruz Azul.
América advances despite losing on penalties
In another of the day’s most thrilling matchups, Club América advanced and secured its spot in the quarterfinals, though not without a major scare. Las Águilas lost 6-5 in a penalty shootout against Austin FC after tying 1-1 in regulation.
The Azulcrema had taken the lead thanks to an own goal by Jon Gallagher. However, the Texans responded and tied the game in the 67th minute through Myrto Uzuni. In the penalty shootout, Austin goalkeeper Brad Stuver proved to be a key factor by stopping the decisive shot. Despite the loss in the shootout, the Coapa-based team managed to advance to the next round.
Here’s How the Quarterfinals Will Play Out
Liga MX and MLS will face off in four high-stakes matchups. Representing Mexico will be León, América, Toluca, and Monterrey, while the United States will be represented by Chicago, Austin, Columbus, and Real Salt Lake.
The final matchups (with dates and times still to be confirmed) are as follows:
- León vs. Real Salt Lake
- Toluca vs. Austin FC
- Monterrey vs. Chicago Fire
- América vs. Columbus Crew
