The highly anticipated 2024 Leagues Cup tournament is set to kick off on July 26, featuring a thrilling clash between Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami CF and Tigres, a Mexican powerhouse. In addition, the LA Galaxy and San Jose Earthquakes will face off against Liga MX giant Chivas. This “World-Cup style” competition brings together all 47 clubs from MLS and Liga MX, creating an intense battle for the regional title and three automatic spots into the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup. With a revised format, the tournament promises excitement and fierce competition like never before.
A New Group Stage Format
The 2024 Leagues Cup introduces a new group stage format, divided into two regions: East and West. Unlike the previous year, where four regions were utilized, the change seeks to ensure travel efficiency and competitive balance. The teams were distributed into 15 groups of three, with special consideration given to the new “Leagues Cup Ranking” system. This system tiers the teams based on their 34 regular season performances in 2023, providing equity among the groups. By avoiding a draw and carefully selecting the groups, the organizers aim to avoid any potential imbalances that may arise.
One group that stands out is East 3, featuring the reigning Leagues Cup champion, Inter Miami led by Lionel Messi. They are set to face off against Tigres, a club with a rich history of winning, and Puebla, a formidable opponent. This group is undoubtedly tough and promises intense action on the field. Former U.S. men’s national team player, DaMarcus Beasley, acknowledges the challenge, emphasizing the strength of each team and expressing his anticipation for a highly competitive tournament.
Exciting Matchups in Group West 2
Group West 2 presents another thrilling matchup that soccer fans won’t want to miss. Chivas, a renowned club from Liga MX, will go head-to-head with the LA Galaxy. The storyline capturing attention here is the return of Guadalajara legend Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez, who will face his former MLS side. Additionally, Cade Cowell, a talented player for the United States men’s national team, will take on his former team, the San Jose Earthquakes. This reunion promises to be a captivating storyline throughout the tournament.
Similar to the previous year, group stage games will not end in ties. Instead, penalty shootouts will be held for matches that are level after regulation play, providing an opportunity for teams to secure an additional point. This rule creates a thrilling and decisive atmosphere, encouraging teams to give their all until the final whistle. It ensures that every moment of the group stage matters and adds an element of excitement for both players and fans.
After playing each team in their group once, the top two from each of the 15 groups will advance to the knockout round. Joining them will be Liga MX champion Club America and MLS Cup winner Columbus Crew, who received byes into this stage. The knockout round matches will be single-elimination, culminating in a final and a third-place game. The two finalists and the third-place winner will earn coveted spots in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup, further highlighting the significance and stakes of the tournament.
The Leagues Cup will continue to be played in the United States and Canada, ensuring accessibility for fans from both MLS and Liga MX. However, an intriguing modification for 2024 grants “hub privileges” to the top-ranked Mexican teams. These privileges aim to reduce travel by selecting predetermined venues as home stadiums for the four best Mexican teams in the Leagues Cup Ranking. The selection process is meticulous, respecting the preferences of the Liga MX teams and the fans’ enthusiasm.
While the Leagues Cup primarily focuses on matches in the United States and Canada, playing games in Mexico has not been ruled out for future editions. The organizers remain open to the possibility, taking into account the desire to cater to fans in Mexico as well. The committee responsible for the Leagues Cup, consisting of representatives from the tournament and MLS and Liga MX leadership, acknowledges the importance of respecting other Concacaf-sanctioned competitions, such as the Concacaf Champions Cup, which involves cross-border and inter-nation participation.
The 2024 Leagues Cup tournament promises to be a riveting battle between MLS and Liga MX teams. With a revamped group stage format, exciting matchups, and the potential for penalty shootouts, every game is sure to be filled with intensity and drama. As the tournament progresses, teams will strive to secure their spot in the knockout round and earn a chance to compete in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup. With a continued focus on matches in the United States and Canada, while remaining open to future expansion, the Leagues Cup aims to provide an exhilarating experience for fans on both sides of the border.