The 2025 Leagues Cup between MLS and Liga MX will debut a revamped structure with 36 clubs—18 from each league—competing in a two-phase tournament. With a new scheduling system, more balance, and head-to-head matchups, it aims to become North America’s most intense summer competition.
How Will the New Leagues Cup Format Work in 2025?
Phase One: Only MLS vs Liga MX Matchups
From July 29 to August 7, every match in Phase One will be between an MLS and Liga MX team. Each club will play three matches against teams from the opposite league, determined by Leagues Cup ranking and regional criteria (East vs West, performance-based groups).
In total, 54 interleague matches will be played during this round—representing 80% of the tournament.
Scoring System and Advancement
Win in regulation time : 3 points
- Draw + shootout win : 2 points
- Draw + shootout loss : 1 point
There will be no tied games—all level matches go straight to penalty shootouts.
Knockout Rounds: Crossover Quarterfinals
The top 4 teams from each league (MLS and Liga MX standings tracked separately during Phase One) will qualify for the quarterfinals.
The matchups will follow this cross-ranking format:
- MLS 1 vs Liga MX 4
- MLS 2 vs Liga MX 3
- MLS 3 vs Liga MX 2
- MLS 4 vs Liga MX 1
Winners will advance to semifinals, a third-place match, and the final, all in single-elimination format. Ties will also go directly to penalty kicks.
Dates, Venues, and Stakes
The tournament will run from July 29 to August 31, 2025, with all matches held in U.S. and Canadian stadiums.
The opening match will be Toluca vs Columbus Crew, on July 29 at 7 PM ET, in Columbus, Ohio.
In total, 62 matches will be played across the full tournament.
The top three teams will qualify for the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, with a pathway toward the FIFA Club World Cup.
