“It’s clear that it’s a disadvantage; you don’t have to be [Albert] Einstein to realize it. The home team is waiting for you at their own place, with their own beds, meals and schedules. Obviously, it takes a physical toll,” Abreu said in response to Bolavip during a press conference on Saturday.

Although San Diego is only across the US-Mexico border for Tijuana, the Xolos first had to travel to Texas to play Austin in their debut at the 2026 Leagues Cup. Needless to say, it wasn’t a good start, as it put Abreu’s team with its back against the wall.

Abreu wants Tijuana to be cautious

Only a win will do for Tijuana against San Diego FC as the Xolos are playing for survival in the 2026 Leagues Cup. After losing to Austin in the opener, the Xolos can’t afford another defeat, and even a tie could be enough to eliminate them.

With everything on the line, Abreu still wants his team to be wary, as there is a long Liga MX season ahead. Perhaps because the tournament lacks prestige or Mexican teams believe they are at a disadvantage, the Xolos’ head coach didn’t show much urgency.

“We have to take precautions for when domestic league play resumes, but we should enjoy it and, above all, let the young players gain these experiences, which are fantastic for them,” Abreu stated in response to Bolavip.

Tijuana’s Leagues Cup schedule

After the 2-0 loss in the debut against Austin, Tijuana take on San Diego FC (Aug. 9) on the road before closing the first round of the 2026 Leagues Cup on Aug. 13 when they visit the Portland Timbers. Only days later, Liga MX action will resume and the Xolos are scheduled to go head to head with Cruz Azul on Aug. 17.

• Tijuana at Austin: 2-0 loss
• Tijuana at San Diego FC (Aug. 9)
• Tijuana at Portland Timbers (Aug. 13)

“We were able to watch the first four games of the league this year and you see that we have to be able to adjust to what the game brings because you’ll see a different shape, one that’s tough for us to predict going into the match, but even throughout the game that they might change shape, or the way they’re building up, and the way they’re defending,” Richter started his response to Bolavip.

“And for us, that we’re able to be flexible and able to adapt to what we see in the game. So, we try to give them the picture, but that’s up to Kai and the guys also in some moments that they have to recognize the situation and organize that piece themselves on the field.“

Richter, who was named interim head coach by the Union in late May, expects Cruz Azul to challenge his players with a style of play that is rarely seen in Major League Soccer.

“Something that you don’t see so much every week at MLS is this type of fluidity and this type of changes, and one that I’m excited to see how we adapt to, and I think we’ll be successful if we’re able to adapt accordingly,” Richter added.

Wagner embraces underdog mentality vs. Cruz Azul

Wagner, meanwhile, had no problem in admitting that Cruz Azul are strong favorites for this clash. The 29-year-old, who returned to Philadelphia as a Designated Player in July following a brief stint with English side Birmingham City, still believes in the Union’s chances to produce an upset.

“We have the coaches who talk us through the game, we had a film session and for me, it’s just like we have to bring our best moments on the field, we have to defend good, we have to attack good, we have to be all leaders on the field all together,” Wagner responded to Bolavip. “And we know Cruz Azul will be the favorites for that game. They are one of the biggest teams in Mexico, and we’re really happy to face them tomorrow to see what we are capable of.

“Like I said, we are in a good run of form in the moment, but to be clear, they are the favorites tomorrow. But we like to be the underdogs, we like the mentality to come as the underdogs and yeah, I’m ready for the game. Hope the boys are ready too, I will make sure I get them ready for tomorrow.“

Philadelphia and Cruz Azul’s recent form

Even though Wagner is putting the pressure on the opponents, the Union head into their Leagues Cup debut in excellent form. Under Richter, Philadelphia is riding on a three-game winning streak, having won all three MLS fixtures played at home after the World Cup break.

Last time out, Cruz Azul suffered a tight 2-3 loss to Atlante in Liga MX play, but before that, Joel Huiqui’s men claimed two league wins as well as the Campeon de Campeones title against Toluca.

As the defending Liga MX champions, Cruz Azul are widely seen as favorites not only to get a victorious start against Philadelphia, but also to challenge for the Leagues Cup title. Wagner is aware of that, but he’s embracing the underdog status. Let’s wait and see what happens Thursday night.

How to watch Club America vs Santos Laguna in the USA

Club America and Santos Laguna will meet on Sunday, August 2, in a Liga MX Apertura 2026 matchup at Mexico City Stadium. The game will be available for viewers in the United States through TUDN USA.

Also, fans can stream the game through TUDN.com, the TUDN App and ViX, depending on their subscription package and regional availability.

Can I watch Club America vs Santos Laguna for free?

There is no confirmed free streaming option for Club America vs Santos Laguna in the United States. Fans will need access to one of the official platforms carrying the match, including TUDN’s television and digital services.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Club America and Santos Laguna meet at the Estadio Banorte in a crucial Matchday 3 clash of the 2026 Liga MX Apertura, with both teams arriving in very different situations during the opening weeks of the tournament.

Las Aguilas have collected four points from their first two matches, with one win and one draw, while Santos Laguna are still searching for their first victory after suffering two defeats and remaining without points.

For America, this match represents an opportunity to continue positioning themselves among the early contenders in the Apertura standings. With only 17 regular-season games before the Liguilla, every point becomes important in the race for playoff qualification and better seeding.

Playing at home, they will look to control the match through possession and maintain the defensive solidity that has allowed them to concede only one goal in their first two league games.

Santos Laguna arrive under pressure after a difficult start to the campaign. Los Guerreros have scored twice in their opening two matches but have also conceded four goals, leaving them needing a positive result against one of Liga MX‘s biggest clubs.

The recent history between the two sides adds another storyline to the matchup. America have dominated the latest meetings, including a 3-0 home victory and a 1-1 draw in their most recent encounters.

What time is the Club America vs Santos Laguna match?

Club America and Santos Laguna will face each other on Sunday, August 2, in a Liga MX Apertura 2026 Matchday 3 matchup at Estadio Banorte. The match kicks off at 7:00 PM ET.

Eastern Time (ET): 7:00 PM
Central Time (CT): 6:00 PM
Mountain Time (MT): 5:00 PM
Pacific Time (PT): 4:00 PM

How to watch Cruz Azul vs Atlante in the USA

Cruz Azul and Atlante meet on Saturday, August 1, in a Liga MX Apertura regular-season clash. Fans in the United States can watch the match live on TUDN USA and Univision.

The game will also be available to stream on TUDN.com, Univision NOW, the TUDN App and ViX, giving viewers multiple ways to follow the action live on mobile devices, smart TVs and web browsers.

Can I watch Cruz Azul vs Atlante for free?

There is no confirmed free streaming option available for Cruz Azul vs. Atlante in the United States. Fans will need access to one of the official platforms carrying the match, including TUDN USA, Univision and more.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Cruz Azul face Atlante in one of the most attractive fixtures of Matchday 3 of the 2026 Liga MX Apertura. La Maquina arrive with the responsibility of defending their status as the reigning Mexican champions after winning the previous tournament, making every early-season match important as they look to secure a strong position before the league calendar becomes more demanding.

They will look to take advantage of home-field advantage and continue building confidence in their pursuit of another deep Liguilla run. With the Liga MX regular season offering limited opportunities to recover dropped points, collecting victories from the opening weeks can be crucial when playoff qualification and seeding are decided.

For Atlante, the match represents another major challenge in their return to Mexico’s top division. After spending several seasons outside Liga MX, Los Potros de Hierro are aiming to establish themselves among the country’s elite clubs again. Facing the defending champions provides an immediate test of their level and an opportunity to earn a statement result against one of the league’s biggest names.

Cruz Azul vs Atlante: Predicted Lineups

Cruz Azul (4-2-3-1): Kevin Mier; Jorge Sanchez, Willer Ditta, Jesus Orozco Chiquete, Carlos Rotondi; Erik Lira, Carlos Rodriguez; Mateusz Bogusz, Jose Paradela, Luka Romero; Gabriel Fernandez.

Atlante (5-3-2): Oscar Jiménez; Eduardo Tercero, Lucho Sanchez, Nicolas Carrera, Walter Clar, Walter Portales; Eugenio Pizzuto, Armando Escobar, Leonardo Mejia; Vladimir Moragrega, Rafael Duran.

What time is the Cruz Azul vs Atlante match?

Cruz Azul and Atlante will meet on Saturday, August 1, in a Liga MX Apertura Matchday 3 clash. Kickoff is scheduled for 11:00 PM ET. Below are the start times across the four major U.S. time zones:

Eastern Time (ET): 11:00 PM
Central Time (CT): 10:00 PM
Mountain Time (MT): 9:00 PM
Pacific Time (PT): 8:00 PM

By 2005, seeking broader domestic appeal and international recognition, MLS pivoted to an ambitious new format: pitting its top players against visiting European powerhouses during their summer preseason tours. For fifteen years, this model brought marquee clubs like Chelsea, Manchester United, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid to American stadiums.

The European format concluded in 2019 following a matchup against Atletico Madrid. After the 2020 event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, MLS established a rivalry showcase by partnering with Mexico’s top division, Liga MX. In 2026, both MLS and Liga MX built star-studded rosters as this rivalry continues.

MLS holds advantage over Liga MX

Since launching the inter-league format in 2021, MLS has controlled the series, winning three of the four meetings against Liga MX:

• 2021 (Los Angeles): MLS earned the inaugural bragging rights after winning a dramatic penalty shootout following a 1–1 draw.
• 2022 (Minnesota): MLS secured a 2–1 victory at Allianz Field.
• 2023 (Washington, D.C.): MLS briefly paused the Liga MX rivalry to host Premier League contender Arsenal at Audi Field, enduring a 5–0 defeat.
• 2024 (Columbus): Pushed by the 2023 setback, MLS returned to the Liga MX format. Liga MX capitalized with a dominant 4–1 victory at Lower.com Field.
• 2025 (Austin): MLS reclaimed the crown with a convincing 3–1 triumph at Q2 Stadium.

As the 2026 edition approaches, MLS’s strong track record leaves them as the favorite, though Liga MX remains eager to even the score in North America’s premier summer spectacle. Dean Smith is coaching MLS while Antonio Mohamed manages the Liga MX squad.

The evolution of the MLS All-Star Game

How to watch MLS All-Star vs Liga MX All-Stars in the USA

Soccer fans won’t find this highly anticipated clash anywhere else, as Apple TV holds exclusive rights to broadcast the action live in its entirety.

The game will be available exclusively through Apple TV, delivering comprehensive live coverage from the opening kick through the closing moments.

Can I watch MLS All-Star vs Liga MX All-Stars for free?

Viewers in the United States can stream the game live through Apple TV, which currently provides a complimentary 7-day trial for eligible new users.

With this promotion, fans can tune in and watch the action without paying upfront, then decide at the end of the trial period whether they would like to keep their subscription active.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

The top stars from MLS and Liga MX are set to share the spotlight once again in one of North American soccer’s premier annual events. Lionel Messi isn’t playing today as he’s resting after the 2026 World Cup, but the MLS and Liga MX rosters are still stacked.

With elite talent on both sides, this matchup promises plenty of excitement and quality play from start to finish. With Dean Smith coaching MLS and Antonio Mohamed overseeing the Liga MX side, fans are in for a treat tonight.

The rivalry has been perfectly balanced through four editions, with each league earning two victories. Will MLS or Liga MX pull ahead this year? Tune in and find out.

What time is the MLS All-Star vs Liga MX All-Stars match?

The match kicks off today, July 29, at 8:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 8:00 PM
Central Time: 7:00 PM
Mountain Time: 6:00 PM
Pacific Time: 5:00 PM

Despite the excitement surrounding the matchup, the game has also been marked by several notable absences. Lionel Messi headlines the list after deciding not to participate following a demanding 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign. On the Liga MX side, numerous stars also declined their invitations, forcing organizers to make several roster changes before kickoff.

Even with those withdrawals, both leagues still boast plenty of talent, including internationally recognized stars such as Son Heung-min, Thomas Muller, Salomon Rondon, Evander, Hany Mukhtar, and Carles Gil, ensuring another entertaining edition of the annual exhibition.

What’s MLS roster for 2026 All-Star game?

MLS will be represented by goalkeepers Maxime Crepeau, Matt Freese, and Brian Schwake. The defensive group includes Tim Ream, Andy Najar, Anthony Markanich, Steven Moreira, Jackson Ragen, Lucas Herrington, Daniel Munie, Richie Laryea, and Max Arfsten.

In midfield, MLS features Thomas Muller, Ashley Westwood, Evander, Carles Gil, Hany Mukhtar, Sebastian Berhalter, Pep Biel, Andres Cubas, Yannick Bright, and Zavier Gozo. Up front, the league will rely on Son Heung-min, Sam Surridge, Anders Dreyer, Petar Musa, Philip Zinckernagel, Guilherme, and rising prospect Julian Hall.

What’s Liga MX roster for 2026 MLS All-Star Game?

Liga MX’s squad includes goalkeepers Carlos Acevedo and Carlos Moreno. The defense is led by Jesus Gallardo, Israel Reyes, Willer Ditta, Nathan Silva, Bruno Mendez, Federico Pereira, Jesus Garza, Omar Campos, and Luis Gabriel Rey.

The Mexican league’s midfield features Juan Francisco Brunetta, Fernando Gorriaran, Carlos Rodriguez, Jose Paradela, Erik Lira, Elias Montiel, Franco Romero, Iker Fimbres, and Javier Ruiz. The attacking options include Salomon Rondon, Robert Morales, Kevin Castañeda, and Alexei Dominguez.

Which players are missing the 2026 MLS All-Star Game?

Lionel Messi is undoubtedly the biggest absence for MLS after choosing to skip the event following the World Cup. His decision means fans will miss the opportunity to see one of soccer’s greatest players in another All-Star appearance.

Liga MX has also been hit hard by withdrawals. Goalkeepers Nahuel Guzman and Keylor Navas will not participate, while defenders Bryan Gonzalez and Richy Ledezma also declined their invitations.

The list continues with midfielders Nicolas Castro, Brian Gutierrez, Gilberto Mora, Brian Rodriguez, and Franco Romero, as well as forwards Armando Gonzalez and Santiago Sandoval, leaving Liga MX without several of its most recognizable stars for this year’s showcase.

Around 35,000 fans are expected to attend this exciting event, which will be missing several notable stars. Global icon Lionel Messi will not play, as he is being rested following his participation in the 2026 World Cup.

Charlotte will play host to this highly anticipated event, with the renowned Bank of America Stadium serving as the venue. Fans can look forward to an action-packed showcase featuring some of the finest talent and skill from both MLS and Liga MX.

Where is Antonio Mohamed coaching now?

Antonio Mohamed currently serves as the head coach of Deportivo Toluca FC in Liga MX. Throughout his managerial career, Mohamed has established himself as one of the most decorated managers in Mexican soccer, winning multiple Liga MX titles across different teams—including Club Tijuana (Apertura 2012), Club America (Apertura 2014), Monterrey (Apertura 2019), and Toluca.

Beyond his domestic success in Mexico, which also includes two Copa MX trophies and a CONCACAF Champions Cup victory with Toluca, Mohamed guided Argentina’s Independiente to the Copa Sudamericana title in 2010 and lifted both the Supercopa do Brasil and Campeonato Mineiro during his stint with Atletico Mineiro in 2022.

Dean Smith’s international journey

Dean Smith currently serves as the head coach of Charlotte FC in MLS. His signature managerial achievement came with Aston Villa, where he took charge in 2018 and successfully guided his boyhood club back to the Premier League via the EFL Championship play-offs in 2019, followed by taking them to the 2020 EFL Cup Final.

Over his extended coaching career across English soccer—which includes successful spells at Walsall, Brentford, Norwich City, and Leicester City—Smith earned a reputation for building attractive, attack-minded sides and developing high-profile talent, notably managing Jack Grealish during Villa’s resurgence.

How to watch Tigres UANL vs Atletico San Luis in the USA

Fans in the United States have more than one way to watch this exciting matchup. Traditional television coverage will be available on FOX Deportes.

Those who prefer streaming can watch the game live on Fubo or FOX One, with coverage available across a wide range of compatible devices.

Can I watch Tigres UANL vs Atletico San Luis for free?

Soccer fans across the United States can watch this exciting matchup live through Fubo available nationwide.

Viewers can enjoy complete live coverage and catch every key moment from kickoff to the final whistle with a 5-days free trial.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Tigres UANL and Atletico San Luis will look to bounce back after disappointing starts to the tournament when they meet in a crucial Liga MX matchup.

Tigres endured a tough 3-1 loss to Tijuana, a surprising setback after a strong first half of the year, while Atletico San Luis fell 3-2 to defending champions Cruz Azul in a much tighter contest.

With both sides still searching for their first victory, they enter this clash determined to recover from their opening defeats and secure three valuable points.

Tigres UANL vs Atletico San Luis: Predicted Lineups

Tigres UANL (4-2-3-1): Nahuel Guzmán; Jesús Garza, Joaquim, Rômulo, Vladimir Loroña; Fernando Gorriarán, Carlos Araujo; Diego Lainez, Juan Brunetta, Ozziel Herrera; Rodrigo Aguirre.

Atletico San Luis (4-4-2): Andrés Sánchez; Alberto Cruz, Eduardo Águila, Ricardo Bambu, Rodrigo Torres; Denis Rodríguez, Rodrigo Llorente Sanz, Oscar Macías, Luis Flores; Lucas Esteves, Sébastien Salles-Lamonge.

What time is the Tigres UANL vs Atletico San Luis match?

The match kicks off today, July 25, at 11:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 11:00 PM
Central Time: 10:00 PM
Mountain Time: 9:00 PM
Pacific Time: 8:00 PM

How to watch Atlante vs Club America in the USA

Supporters in the United States can enjoy the match through both television and streaming platforms. Live TV coverage will be carried by TUDN USA.

Fans who would rather watch online can stream the action live on ViX, giving them an easy way to follow every moment from a wide variety of compatible devices.

Can I watch Atlante vs Club America for free?

Fans across the United States can stream this thrilling contest live on ViX, with nationwide access available for viewers.

Don’t miss a single play from the opening whistle through full-time, and eligible new subscribers can enjoy the action with a 7-day free trial.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

A historic Liga MX rivalry takes center stage as Atlante hosts Club America in a highly anticipated matchup. Los Potros are looking to bounce back after a disappointing return to action, opening the tournament with a 2-1 defeat against Necaxa.

Meanwhile, Las Aguilas enter the clash with confidence after securing a narrow 1-0 win over Queretaro, and they will aim to build momentum with another victory as they push higher in the standings.

Atlante vs Club America: Predicted Lineups

Atlante (4-3-3): Óscar Jiménez; Diogo Bagui, Eduardo Tercero, Luis Sánchez, Cristóbal Alfaro; Walter Portales, Martín Fernández, Gilberto Adame; Johan Julio, Joaquín Moxica, Octavio Vázquez.

Club America (4-3-3): Rodolfo Cota; Kevin Álvarez, Ramón Juárez, Sebastián Cáceres, Cristian Borja; Alan Cervantes, Érick Sánchez, Raphael Veiga; Brian Rodríguez, Henry Martín, José Zúñiga.

What time is the Atlante vs Club America match?

The match kicks off today, July 24, at 10:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 10:00 PM
Central Time: 9:00 PM
Mountain Time: 8:00 PM
Pacific Time: 7:00 PM

How to watch Toluca vs Pumas UNAM in the USA

Viewers in the United States can catch this exciting matchup through multiple viewing options. Traditional television coverage will be available on TUDN.

For those who prefer streaming, the game can be watched live on DirecTV Stream, Hulu + Live TV, and ViX across a wide range of compatible devices.

Can I watch Toluca vs Pumas UNAM for free?

Soccer supporters across the United States can watch this thrilling contest live on DirecTV Stream, which is currently providing a 5-day free trial for qualified new customers.

Fans looking to follow every minute of the action can take advantage of this limited-time promotion to stream the entire game live without paying anything upfront before the trial expires.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Pumas UNAM will try to rebound after opening the Apertura 2026 with a 3-0 loss to Pachuca, despite entering the season on the heels of a runner-up finish in the Clausura.

After coming within reach of the title just months ago, Pumas now face an early opportunity to get their season back on track.

Standing in their way are Toluca, who opened the tournament with a 2-0 win over Chivas and will look to make it two straight victories.

Toluca vs Pumas UNAM: Predicted Lineups

Toluca (4-2-3-1): Raúl González; Alan Barbosa, Carlos Méndez, Luan Garcia, Matheus Pereira, Cristian Gallardo; Nicolás Romero, José Angulo, Víctor Díaz; Matías Pérez, Paulinho.

Pumas UNAM (4-4-2): Keylor Navas; Jeyland López, Francisco Silva, Óscar Duarte, Alvaro Angulo; José Córdova, Adalberto Carrasquilla, Pedro Vite, Fernando Trigos; Juninho, Adrián Morales.

What time is the Toluca vs Pumas UNAM match?

The match kicks off today, July 21, at 11:05 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 11:05 PM
Central Time: 10:05 PM
Mountain Time: 9:05 PM
Pacific Time: 8:05 PM