Hey there, soccer enthusiasts! Brace yourselves for a historic event as the inaugural Leagues Cup is on the horizon. This tournament is set to be a game-changer because it's the first of its kind—a competition between two leagues sanctioned by their Confederation, involving teams from all sides of the Mexico-United States-Canadian borders.
All 47 first division clubs from Mexico and North America coming together to compete in a thrilling showdown. It's your favorite club going head-to-head with international opponents, vying for that coveted trophy. The excitement is palpable, and anticipation is at an all-time high.
What’s at Stake?
At the heart of it all, the ultimate prize in the 2023 Leagues Cup is the trophy itself. But this is no ordinary trophy—it represents a remarkable achievement that declares you as the cream of the crop among teams from three countries. Winning the Leagues Cup is a monumental accomplishment, solidifying your status as the best of the best.
However, the rewards don't end there. The Leagues Cup winner earns a direct qualification to the Round of 16 in the prestigious Concacaf Champions Cup—the continental pinnacle of soccer. This means they skip ahead to the knockout stage of the highest level of competition in the region. It's an opportunity to challenge the top clubs from across North and Central America, showcasing their talent on an even grander stage.
But even for the teams finishing in second and third place, there's still cause for celebration. These clubs secure qualification to Round One of the Concacaf Champions Cup. In summary, the Leagues Cup is about more than just a shiny trophy. It's about staking your claim as the top team, earning the right to compete in the Champions Cup, and striving for greatness on the regional stage.
Format
Both MLS and Liga MX seasons will pause as all focus will be on the Leagues Cup, a World Cup-style tournament that will consist of a total of 77 matches played from July 21st through August 19th.
The Group Stage kicks off on July 21 and runs through July 31, and will see rivalries born and renewed, as well as feature exciting rematches between Liga MX and MLS clubs.
The Knockout Rounds, a single-game elimination format, will begin with the Round of 32 from August 2nd to 4th, comprising 16 matches. The Round of 16 will follow on August 6th to 8th, with eight matches determining the advancing teams.
The victorious eight teams will then proceed to the Quarterfinals, taking place on August 11th and 12th, featuring four matches. Following this, the Semifinal matches will occur on August 15th, setting the stage for the ultimate showdown.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 19th, as the Leagues Cup 2023 Final and third-place game will unfold, determining the three clubs that will secure a spot in the 2024 Champions Cup. All eyes will be on the grand finale of what is likely to be an unforgettable conclusion to the tournament.
Charlotte FC Leagues Cup Schedule
For the first time in their short history, Charlotte FC will face off against international competition and an MLS opponent they have yet to encounter in their Leagues Cup group stage matches.
FC Dallas v Charlotte FC – Friday, July 21st at 9:00 pm ET
All matches will be available to watch through the MLS Season Pass via Apple TV.
So, gear up, mark your calendars, and get your lucky jersey ready because the 2023 Leagues Cup is about to kick off. Get ready to witness the clash of the giants, the passion of the fans, and the sheer thrill of the beautiful game. This is one tournament you definitely don't want to miss!
DUAL WATCH PARTY
Two watch parties in one: USWNT vs. Vietnam & Leagues Cup Group Stage vs. FC Dallas.
July 21st at 8PM | Kickoff at 9PM @ The Fairwood 226
