Leagues Cup Predictions, Teams to Watch As MLS-Liga MX Rivalry Renews

Leagues Cup is back for another chapter of the MLS-Liga MX rivalry – but with two twists!

This edition of the tournament (July 29-August 31) will see all 18 Liga MX teams compete, while 18 from MLS will round out the competition. The first twist: Unlike previous editions of the competition, Phase 1 will see each club play three matches against the three opponents from the opposite league. 

And now another twist: Clubs will earn points within their league-specific tables; an MLS club's win earns points in the Leagues Cup MLS table, and ditto for Liga MX teams. The top four teams from each league (four from Liga MX, four from MLS) will reach the knockout rounds. 

But like any tournament, there are teams that will rise above and who are expected to be among the favorites. Here are 10 teams across both leagues who will be among the standouts. We also predict the knockout rounds and see who'll be lifting the trophy on Aug. 31. Vamos! 

Sergio Ramos stars in Monterrey's back line. (Photo by Azael Rodriguez/Getty Images)

América

When it comes to big games, few teams in the region can match Las Aguilas’ pedigree. Liga MX's most successful club in history has won three of the league's last four titles. Henry Martin is a reliable goalscorer, Alvaro Fidalgo is the key cog in the midfield, and Luis Malagon is among the best keepers in CONCACAF.

Cruz Azul

Despite their continual disappointment in Liga MX play, La Maquina are among the deepest squads around. They'll ride the momentum of winning the CONCACAF Champions Cup in May. Kevin Mier is an outstanding keeper, Ángel Sepulvada has been a goal-producing machine over the past year. 

Monterrey

This is a deep squad that recently finished competing at the Club World Cup and