In 2025, the Concacaf Champions Cup will see ten Major League Soccer (MLS) clubs representing North America compete on a continental stage, striving for a place in the FIFA Club World Cup and the Intercontinental Cup.
The 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup will be a significant event, featuring ten teams from the MLS among the 27 clubs competing. These clubs have qualified through various channels, each aiming to showcase their prowess on an international platform.
Among the MLS representatives, the Columbus Crew secured their position as the 2024 Leagues Cup champions, guaranteeing their entry into the Round of 16. Similarly, the LA Galaxy will proceed directly to the Round of 16 as they emerge victorious in the 2024 MLS Cup. The LAFC, qualifying through the Leagues Cup pathway, ensures that Sporting Kansas City, as the finalist for the 2024 US Open Cup, also secures a slot in the tournament.
Other notable MLS teams include the Colorado Rapids, Inter Miami CF, LAFC, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC, each earning their participation through different achievements such as the Supporters’ Shield standings and national championships. For example, the Colorado Rapids gained their place by finishing third in the 2024 Leagues Cup, and Vancouver Whitecaps FC qualified by winning the 2024 Canadian Championship.
The Concacaf Champions Cup will span five rounds, beginning with a direct elimination knockout stage format. These rounds include Round One, the Round of 16, Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and culminate with a Final. The initial matches of Round One are scheduled for early February, with the final round set for June 1, 2025. Importantly, the draw to determine the tournament’s bracket and the path each club will take to reach the final is due on December 10 of this year.
Seventeen non-MLS teams are part of this expansive tournament. Mexico, leading with six clubs, includes renowned names such as Club América and Chivas Guadalajara. The competition also witnesses participation from teams across other nations, including Canada, represented by Cavalry FC and Forge FC, and Costa Rica, with clubs like Alajuelense and Saprissa.
The tournament’s structure allows 22 clubs to commence play in Round One, while five receive a direct bye to the Round of 16. This elite group consists of Columbus Crew, LA Galaxy, Club América from Mexico, and champions from the Caribbean and Central American cups.
The Concacaf Champions Cup offers a thrilling opportunity for clubs to demonstrate their strength and compete for international acclaim. Clubs from the MLS are not only competing for regional pride but are also vying for a place in global tournaments, reflecting the growing influence and competitive spirit of North American soccer.
As the Concacaf Champions Cup 2025 approaches, excitement builds among fans and players alike. With a mix of skill and determination, MLS clubs aim to prove their mettle on the international stage.
Source: Mlssoccer
