The Leagues Cup 2026 enters its knockout phase with eight teams remaining after an action-packed Phase One. The quarterfinals will feature four MLS clubs against four LIGA MX sides, continuing the tournament’s cross-border rivalry and setting up a high-stakes battle for places in the semifinals.
The quarterfinals are scheduled across August 25 and 26, with all four matches taking place in the United States. The opening game will see Chicago Fire FC take on CF Monterrey on Tuesday, August 25 at SeatGeek Stadium.
Chicago were perfect in Phase One, collecting nine points from three matches, while Monterrey advanced after finishing level with Cruz Azul on points and goal difference but edging them on goals scored.
Later on August 25, Club León face Real Salt Lake at 10:30 PM ET at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. León were the top-ranked LIGA MX side after winning all three Phase One games, while RSL produced seven unanswered goals in their final two matches to secure fourth place among the MLS qualifiers.
The action continues on Wednesday, August 26, with Austin FC meeting Toluca FC at 8:30 PM ET at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey. Austin remained unbeaten through Phase One, while Toluca enter the quarterfinals as the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup winners and will provide a major test.
The final quarterfinal pits Club America against Columbus Crew at 10:45 PM ET at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The matchup carries added intrigue following their recent history in Concacaf competition, while Columbus will be looking to continue their pursuit of a second Leagues Cup title.
All four ties are single-elimination matches. If a game is level after 90 minutes, it goes directly to a penalty shootout, with no extra time. The semifinals are scheduled for September 1-2, before the tournament concludes with the third-place match and final on September 6.
Leagues Cup 2026 Quarterfinal Schedule
August 25: Chicago Fire vs CF Monterrey – SeatGeek Stadium
August 25: Club León vs Real Salt Lake – Dick’s Sporting Goods Park
August 26: Austin FC vs Toluca FC – Illustrated Stadium
August 26: Club America vs Columbus Crew – Dignity Health Sports Park