Four MLS teams have qualified for the semifinals of the Leagues Cup between MLS and LigaMX teams. Motivated by a trophy and big prize money, the Cup still guarantees automatic spots in the Concacaf Champions Cup next year. Here we look at the two semi-finals and which of the four remaining clubs has the best chance of winning the second edition of the tournament.
Steve Cherundolo and Wilfried Nancy (Celso Oliveira/ MLS Territory)
Columbus Crew advanced to the Leagues Cup semifinals after an intense contest against New York City FC. The game ended 1-1, with NYCFC scoring in the first minute of play and the home team equalizing through Cucho Hernandez. The Crew would win on penalties 4-3. Continuing to play at home, they will have the support of their home fans as they attempt to secure a spot in the final.
Jim Curtin: Reproduction/Philadelphia Union
The Philadelphia Union also advanced after a 1-1 draw against Mazatlán FC and won the penalty shootout 4-3. The team showed resilience and once again Jim Curtin proved himself to be one of the best coaches in North American soccer. Now, Daniel Gazdag and company will hope to repeat that solid performance to overcome the MLS Cup champion Columbus Crew.
West: LAFC vs. Colorado Rapids
Bouanga during LAFC’s loss to Monterrey in the 2023 Leagues Cup / Celso Oliveira
LAFC secured their semi-final spot with a dominant 3-0 win over Seattle Sounders FC at Lumen Field to advance to the semi-finals of the competition for the first time. The team showed a solid defensive performance, limiting the Sounders’ attack and exploiting counterattacks with extreme effectiveness. Steve Cherundolo’s team also showed the strength of their squad, replacing Olivier Giroud in the second half of a game already won. Having done little after two games, the question remains as to what impact the Frenchman will have on the competition and LAFC as a whole.
Mihailovic for Colorado (Rapids / X)
The Colorado Rapids advanced after a 0-0 draw against Club América and won on penalties 9-8, with the goalkeepers taking their own shots. The team has demonstrated total control under Chris Armas, having eliminated 4 Mexican teams in a row, a great achievement for the team led by Brazilian Rafael Navarro, who has 2 goals in the competition. The mission now is to face LAFC in Los Angeles, in a duel that promises to be very competitive and very balanced.
Capa: Philadelphia Union / X
