Leagues Cup Returns: What To Know, Predictions For MLS-Liga MX Tournament

The 2026 Leagues Cup tournament begins August 4, featuring 36 teams — 18 MLS clubs and all 18 Liga MX squads — competing in a cross-league competition following the conclusion of the World Cup. The opening action includes Seattle Sounders vs. Toluca on August 4 at 10 p.m. ET on FS1, with star players such as Inter Miami's Lionel Messi among the participants. Phase One runs from August 4–13, consisting of 54 MLS vs. Liga MX round-robin matchups using a no-ties format, with the top four teams from each league's table advancing to the knockout round.