Miguel Almirón Returns to Atlanta United: A Homecoming Celebration 
The Leagues Cup 2025 is set to bring a thrilling new format to soccer fans, featuring exclusively interleague matches between Major League Soccer (MLS) and LIGA MX clubs. Kicking off on July 29 and running through August 31, this tournament promises to enhance the competitive spirit between North America’s premier soccer leagues.
Key Takeaways
- Tournament Dates: July 29 – August 31, 2025
- Participating Teams: 36 clubs (18 from MLS and 18 from LIGA MX)
- Format: Two phases – Phase One and Knockout Rounds
- Qualification: Top teams from each league will compete for spots in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup
Overview of the Tournament
The Leagues Cup 2025 will feature a total of 36 clubs, with 18 teams from LIGA MX and 18 qualifying teams from MLS. The top nine teams from each MLS conference that participated in the previous season’s playoffs will qualify for the tournament. Notably, the expansion club San Diego FC will replace the Vancouver Whitecaps FC in this edition.
Tournament Format
The tournament will be divided into two main phases:
- Phase One: Each club will play three consecutive matches against teams from the opposite league between July 29 and August 7. All matches will be interleague, ensuring a robust competition.
- Knockout Rounds: The top four clubs from each league-specific table will advance to the knockout stage, which will consist of single-elimination matches featuring only MLS vs. LIGA MX matchups.
Regional Tiers and Matchups
Clubs will be divided into two regions (Eastern and Western), with each region containing three tiers based on their performance:
- Tier 1: Teams ranked 1-3 from each league
- Tier 2: Teams ranked 4-6 from each league
- Tier 3: Teams ranked 7-9 from each league
Each set will include one MLS club and one LIGA MX club from each tier, facilitating exciting matchups throughout Phase One.
Points System
The Leagues Cup 2025 will maintain a unique points system:
- Regulation Win: 3 points
- Penalty Shootout Win: 2 points
- Draw: 1 point for each team
This system encourages teams to strive for victory, as draws will not be a common outcome.
Broadcast and Viewing Options
Fans can catch all the action from the Leagues Cup 2025 through various platforms. Matches will be available in over 100 countries via the MLS Season Pass on the Apple TV app, along with select broadcasts on TelevisaUnivision, FOX Sports, TSN, and RDS.
Conclusion
The Leagues Cup 2025 is poised to elevate the excitement of interleague soccer in North America. With a fresh format, competitive matchups, and a focus on rewarding regular-season performance, this tournament is set to be a highlight of the soccer calendar. Fans can look forward to an exhilarating month of soccer as MLS and LIGA MX clubs battle for supremacy on the field.
Sources
- Leagues Cup 2025 Announces New Competition Format to Feature More Interleague MLS vs. LIGA MX Matches | Inter Miami CF, Inter Miami CF.
- Leagues Cup 2025 | Everything you need to know about new format and competition details | PTFC, Portland Timbers.
- Leagues Cup 2025 format & competition details: What to know | MLSSoccer.com, MLSsoccer.com.
