Previewing Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16

Nine MLS clubs remain in the continental tournament as the knockout stage begins.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 kicks off on Tuesday, with nine MLS clubs still in contention. The matchups include some intriguing clashes, such as Philadelphia Union vs. Club América, LAFC vs. Alajuelense, and San Diego FC vs. Toluca FC. The article previews the chances of each MLS team advancing to the quarterfinals.

Why it matters

The Concacaf Champions Cup is the premier club competition in North America, and success in the tournament can boost a team's profile and reputation. MLS clubs have struggled to win the title in recent years, and this year's edition presents an opportunity for some of the league's top teams to make a deep run and potentially claim the trophy.

The details

The article breaks down the key matchups in the Round of 16, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each MLS team and their opponents. It notes that Philadelphia Union face a tough task against the seven-time champions Club América, while LAFC are heavily favored against Alajuelense. The Nashville SC vs. Inter Miami CF matchup is seen as a close one, with Inter Miami holding a historical advantage. The LA Galaxy have the easiest matchup against Jamaican side Mt. Pleasant, while San Diego FC and Toluca FC are set to face off in what could be the most exciting tie of the round.

  • The first leg of the Round of 16 matches will be played on March 10-12.
  • The second leg matches will take place on March 17-19.

The players

Cristian Espinoza

A blockbuster free-agent arrival for Nashville SC who has looked impressive playing alongside Hany Mukhtar.

Sam Surridge

An early Golden Boot frontrunner for Nashville SC, having scored four goals across all competitions so far this season.

Lionel Messi

The superstar forward for Inter Miami CF, who will be a key player as his team faces off against Nashville SC.

Anders Dreyer

The standout player for San Diego FC, who is expected to carry the team through the Concacaf Champions Cup tournament.

Brian White

The Vancouver Whitecaps FC forward who will be a threat to the Seattle Sounders FC defense in their Round of 16 matchup.

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What’s next

The winners of the Round of 16 matches will advance to the quarterfinals, which are scheduled to take place in late March and early April.

The takeaway

The Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16 promises to be an exciting and competitive stage of the tournament, with several MLS clubs looking to make a deep run and potentially claim the continental title. The matchups feature some intriguing clashes that could go either way, setting the stage for an unpredictable and thrilling knockout stage.