The 2025 edition of the Leagues Cup is poised to deliver more thrilling soccer action than ever before, with a fresh format that guarantees an impressive number of cross-league matches between Major League Soccer (MLS) and Liga MX. Scheduled to begin on July 29, this year’s tournament promises to amplify the intensity and excitement, as both leagues aim to showcase their talent and competitiveness on a shared platform. The decision to host this tournament in the U.S. and Canada continues to reflect the growing popularity of soccer across North America.
One of the standout changes for this year’s event is the introduction of a “Phase One” group stage. This innovative format allows all 36 participating teams—18 from both leagues—to engage in three matches against clubs from the opposing league. The results of the 2024 regular season will determine the rankings that inform these groupings, creating a framework based on merit and previous performance. It’s important to note that San Diego FC will sit at the bottom of the MLS rankings, since they will be entering the league for the first time.
Following this initial phase, the top four teams from both leagues will advance to the quarterfinals, which will adopt a single-elimination format. This structure not only heightens the stakes but also solidifies the rivalry, as inter-league pairings during the knockout rounds promise tantalizing matchups that fans have been craving.
With the new format, the Leagues Cup has effectively guaranteed that a majority of its matches will feature teams from both leagues facing off against one another. An impressive 58 out of the 62 scheduled matches will be inter-league encounters, fostering an environment ripe for competition. This initiative aims to further bridge the gap between MLS and Liga MX and to enhance overall fan engagement across North America.
Moreover, the tournament culminates in a championship game on August 31, where the finalists will not only compete for the title but also earn a coveted spot in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. This qualification aspect adds another layer of motivation for the teams competing, emphasizing the importance of each match early in the tournament.
Interestingly, this year will see only 18 teams participating from MLS instead of the entire league, ensuring a more selective yet highly competitive atmosphere. The final roster of teams was determined based on the previous season’s performance, with the ninth-best clubs from each conference earning their way into this prestigious tournament. The inclusion of San Diego FC, circumventing the Vancouver Whitecaps due to their commitments in other competitions, underscores a goal of inclusivity while maintaining competitive integrity.
Despite the tournament’s heavy scheduling, which runs concurrently with regular-season play, the decision to keep both leagues in action highlights the commitment to providing fans with continuous soccer entertainment, while also challenging teams to adapt and perform in multiple competitions.
The 2025 Leagues Cup is shaping up to be an exhilarating experience that will not only spotlight the rivalry between MLS and Liga MX but also provide countless opportunities for players to shine on a larger stage. Fans can expect a summer filled with unforgettable matches that contribute to the growing narrative of soccer in North America.