Vancouver FC Faces Cruz Azul in 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup Leg 1
The Canadian Premier League team Vancouver FC is set to face Mexico’s Cruz Azul in the first leg of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. This exciting match will take place at Willoughby Stadium in Langley on Wednesday, with the kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. PT (10 p.m. ET). This marks a significant moment for Vancouver FC, as it will be their debut on the international soccer stage.
Teams Overview
Cruz Azul, a powerhouse in the competition, holds the record for the most Concacaf Champions Cup titles, having won seven championships. They are tied with Club América and claimed their latest title in 2025. Vancouver FC enters this matchup holding the 102nd position in the Concacaf Club Rankings, significantly behind Cruz Azul, which ranks 2nd.
Historical Context
Canadian fans may remember Cruz Azul’s victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the Concacaf final last June. This time, Vancouver FC hopes for a better outcome against the same opponent’s caliber.
Vancouver FC’s Recent Performance
- Finished the 2025 CPL season with a six-game unbeaten run.
- Vancouver FC ended up at the bottom of the standings, but showed improved form under interim head coach Martin Nash.
- Qualified for the Concacaf Champions Cup by reaching the final of the TELUS Canadian Championship.
In the championship, Vancouver FC performed admirably, defeating three fellow CPL teams, including the finalists Atlético Ottawa and Cavalry FC. However, they lost 4-2 to the Whitecaps in the final.
Team Preparations
Since the conclusion of the 2025 season, Vancouver FC has been focused on preparing for their international debut. Key moves included promoting Martin Nash to the permanent head coach position and retaining important players from the previous season.
Key Players
- Thierno Bah – marquee attacker crucial for the team’s strategy.
- Nicolas Mezquida – experienced player with prior Concacaf experience and familiarity with Mexican teams.
- Tom Field – a veteran defender joining from CPL.
- Luis Toomey – New Zealand international bolstering the attack.
Vancouver FC will rely on their strengthened squad and strategic preparations as they look to make a mark in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup against an established rival like Cruz Azul.
