The 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup kicks off its Round of 16 today, bringing soccer fans across the Americas and the Caribbean to the edge of their seats with excitement. From March 4 to March 13, 2025, elite teams from the MLS and Liga MX will battle for progression to the quarterfinals and the ultimate prize: the opportunity to qualify for the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup.
Leading up to the opening matches, the stage is set with big names like Lionel Messi taking center stage as his club, Inter Miami, faces Cavalier FC. The stakes are high; this round is pivotal for teams striving to assert dominance. Each team will play one home and one away match, with the aggregate score determining who advances.
Matches will take place across various venues, creating thrilling atmospheres as fans prepare for epic battles. For example, the first leg sees FC Cincinnati square off against Tigres UANL at 6:30 p.m. ET today at TQL Stadium. Several matchups will follow, including Pumas UNAM vs. LD Alajuelense and Los Angeles FC vs. Columbus Crew later tonight, making for back-to-back intense sessions of soccer action.
The CONCACAF Champions Cup spotlights the competitive spirit and incredible talent found within North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, uniting the top 27 teams across these regions. The format remains knockout-style where total goals over two matches will determine who moves forward. Notably, the away goals rule will apply, heightening the anticipation as teams strategize to maximize their chances of victory.
Fans will be able to watch these matches on various platforms including FS2, Hulu + Live TV, and Tubi, ensuring accessibility for everyone. FuboTV offers comprehensive coverage and as well, DirecTV boasts packages for sports enthusiasts eager to catch all the action live. For those without cable, Tubi presents select matches for free viewing, adding diversity to how soccer can be enjoyed.
The excitement doesn't end there. The round will showcase historic franchises like LA Galaxy, aiming to re-establish their legacy, and Columbus Crew, who made headlines last year for their gutsy performance. Coach Greg Vanney of LA Galaxy emphasizes the significance of making the right moves, stating, "To be able to come down here... we want to get away goal... with this group to be more goal dangerous.”
Columbus Crew heads to this round with momentum after being crowned the Leagues Cup champions, hoping to continue their success as they face LAFC once more. The Crew's talents have been on display, and the stakes of the competition only fuel their fire. Last year, they reached the finals only to fall short against Liga MX's CF Pachuca, and returning to the forefront of this competition means victory is on their minds.
Another significant match on the schedule features CD Guadalajara battling Club América on March 5, which is among the fiercest rivalries in soccer, bringing additional enthusiasm with depth and passion marking their clashes on the pitch.
The rewards are significant. The eventual winners not only earn continental glory but also bag spots in both the 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup and the 2029 FIFA Club World Cup. The historical backdrop adds to the narrative; since its inception back in 1962, 30 different clubs have experienced the thrill of claiming this coveted trophy.
CONCACAF has also launched its new brand campaign leading up to the tournament, emphasizing the emotional connection fans have with their teams. The campaign invites the question, “Who are you when the jersey goes on?” This sentiment embodies the spirit of soccer—how it transforms players and fans alike as they unite under the banner of their teams.
The competition guarantees exhilarating soccer, with mood-altering moments occurring every round, and as the fixtures roll on, expectations rise among avid fans and casual viewers alike.
Only time will tell which clubs claim their rightful spot at the top and secure their chance at glory. Gear up for thrilling soccer as the CONCACAF Champions Cup Round of 16 promises to deliver unforgettable moments on and off the pitch!