Liga MX Secures All-Mexican Semifinals in Leagues Cup
América, Monterrey, Toluca, and León all advanced to the semifinals of the 2026 Leagues Cup, eliminating their MLS opponents. This guarantees a Mexican champion for the first time since the tournament expanded in 2023. The semifinals will feature América vs Monterrey and Toluca vs León.
The 2026 Leagues Cup semifinal lineup marks a decisive shift in the cross-border rivalry, as all four Mexican clubs dispatched their MLS counterparts in the quarterfinal round. América's victory over Columbus Crew was sealed by goals from Raphael Veiga and Brian Rodríguez, with goalkeeper Rodolfo Cota's penalty save proving pivotal. Toluca capitalized on an early red card against Austin FC, while León and Monterrey handled Real Salt Lake and Chicago Fire respectively.
This outcome breaks a three-year streak of MLS dominance, as Inter Miami, Columbus Crew, and Seattle Sounders had claimed the previous titles since the tournament expanded in 2023. With the semifinals now set as América versus Monterrey and Toluca versus León, the final is guaranteed to feature two Liga MX sides.
This all-Mexican semifinal lineup could reshape perceptions of competitive balance between the two leagues, potentially influencing how fans and sponsors value the tournament. For MLS clubs and their supporters, the early elimination may prompt reflection on roster investment and tactical preparation. Conversely, Liga MX teams gain a platform to assert regional superiority, which could boost Mexican club visibility and commercial appeal in North American soccer markets.