MLS and LIGA MX Clash: 2026 Leagues Cup Schedule Announced
The much-anticipated 2026 Leagues Cup, featuring a showdown between MLS and LIGA MX clubs, has unveiled its schedule. The tournament will occur from August 4 to September 6, following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. For the first time, matches will be held in Mexico, marking a significant milestone in the tournament’s history.
2026 Leagues Cup Format and Locations
This edition will see a total of 36 teams participating—18 from LIGA MX and 18 from MLS. The matches will deliver intense LIGA MX vs. MLS rivalries, with all 54 Phase One games and Quarterfinals featuring this dynamic format. Key match locations in Mexico include:
- Toluca FC: Two matches at Estadio Nemesio Díez in Toluca
- Tigres UANL: One match at Estadio Universitario in Nuevo León
- Club América: One match at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City
Additional Phase One matches will continue at MLS venues, reminiscent of prior tournaments held in 2023 and 2025.
Key Tournament Dates
- Phase One: August 4 – 13
- Quarterfinals: August 25 – 27
- Semifinals: September 1 – 2
- Third-Place Match & Final: September 6
Advancing to Knockout Rounds
Teams must navigate through three competitive matches in the Phase One section. The top four clubs from each league will advance to the Quarterfinals. The tournament implements a “No Ties” policy; matches tied at the end of regulation will proceed to a penalty shootout to determine a winner.
Points are awarded as follows:
- One point for a regulation tie
- Two points for a penalty shootout win
- Three points for a regulation win
Ranking System for Leagues Cup
The rankings for the Leagues Cup are based on each league’s performance. MLS clubs are ranked according to the final 2025 MLS Supporters’ Shield standings, while LIGA MX clubs are evaluated based on their cumulative performance in the Apertura 2025 and Clausura 2025 tournaments.
Participating teams will be organized into Eastern and Western regions with three tiers each:
- Tier 1: Rank 1-3
- Tier 2: Rank 4-6
- Tier 3: Rank 7-9
Leagues Cup History
This year’s tournament marks the fourth edition of the Leagues Cup, which has seen an MLS team crowned champion in each previous iteration since its expansion and reimagination in 2023:
- 2023: Inter Miami CF
- 2024: Columbus Crew
- 2025: Seattle Sounders FC
The champions of the tournament will qualify for the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup, with the top three finishers earning a spot and the tournament winner securing a direct entry to the Round of 16.
Fans can expect extensive coverage of the matches on Apple TV, with select games available on cable and broadcast partners, adding to the excitement surrounding this prestigious event.
