The soccer landscape has been buzzing since the conclusion of the 2024 Leagues Cup, especially with recent events like the Gold Cup and Club World Cup. For fans who may not remember every detail of the Leagues Cup, it was an exciting tournament paving the way for intense rivalries to continue in 2025 when MLS teams face off against Liga MX clubs once more.
The climax of the tournament came with a thrilling final match, where Cucho Hernandez scored a dramatic long-range goal in the last moments, leading to a 3-1 victory for the Columbus Crew over LAFC. Hernandez’s performance not only secured the title for the Crew but also showcased his talent, as he is now making strides with Real Betis.
The Crew’s triumph ensured they secured a bye in the Concacaf Champions Cup, alongside LAFC and the Colorado Rapids, the latter of whom made headlines as goalkeeper Zack Steffen delivered outstanding performances throughout the tournament.
Meanwhile, the defending champions Inter Miami, led by soccer superstar Lionel Messi, faced their own challenges in last year’s tournament when they were eliminated by the Crew. This year, Miami seeks to reclaim their status with matches against Atlas, Necaxa, and Pumas, aiming to solidify their spot in the top quarter of the MLS standings for another shot at the title.
The anticipated competition is now heightened with Liga MX teams eager to disrupt MLS’s dominance in the upcoming tournaments. The format, which secures four Liga MX teams in the quarterfinals, could level the playing field, making for a compelling series of matches as these teams clash on U.S. and Canadian soil.
With historic rivalries and exciting matchups on the horizon, there is much to look forward to in the 2025 Leagues Cup and beyond. The landscape of North American soccer is evolving, with many fans eagerly anticipating intense battles and unforgettable moments in the seasons to come.