Nashville SC Stuns Club America in CONCACAF Champions Cup Quarterfinals

All-MLS semifinal matchup set as LAFC also advances, while Inter Miami parts ways with manager Javier Mascherano

Apr. 16, 2026 at 9:06am

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A cubist, geometric illustration depicting the action of a soccer match between Nashville SC and Club America, with the players and stadium environment fragmented into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes of color.Nashville SC's stunning upset of Club America in the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals reflects the growing parity between MLS and Liga MX clubs on the continental stage.Today in Nashville

In a historic result, Nashville SC defeated seven-time CONCACAF Champions Cup winner Club America 1-0 on aggregate to advance to the semifinals. LAFC also reached the final four, while Inter Miami announced the departure of manager Javier Mascherano following a disappointing start to the season.

Why it matters

Nashville SC's victory over the Mexican powerhouse Club America is a landmark achievement for the young MLS club, showcasing their ability to compete with the region's elite teams. The all-MLS semifinal matchups also highlight the growing strength of Major League Soccer on the continental stage.

The details

Nashville SC midfielder Hany Mukhtar scored the decisive goal in the 51st minute at Estadio Azteca, as the visitors held on to eliminate Club America, who have struggled offensively in recent weeks. Meanwhile, LAFC advanced to the semifinals with a 4-1 aggregate win over defending champions Cruz Azul, with former France international goalkeeper Hugo Lloris providing a steady presence in goal. On the other side of the bracket, Toluca cruised past LA Galaxy 7-2 on aggregate to set up a semifinal clash with LAFC.

  • Nashville SC defeated Club America 1-0 on aggregate in the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals on April 16, 2026.
  • LAFC defeated Cruz Azul 4-1 on aggregate to reach the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals.
  • Toluca defeated LA Galaxy 7-2 on aggregate to advance to the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals.

The players

Hany Mukhtar

A 31-year-old midfielder for Nashville SC who scored the decisive goal against Club America.

André Jardine

The manager of Club America, who has been unable to find solutions to the team's offensive struggles.

Hugo Lloris

The former France international goalkeeper who provided a steady presence in goal for LAFC in their CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal victory.

Javier Mascherano

The legendary Argentine midfielder who has stepped down as the manager of Inter Miami following the team's disappointing start to the season.

Guillermo Hoyos

The interim manager who has taken over for Inter Miami following Javier Mascherano's departure.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

Nashville SC will face Tigres UANL in the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals, while LAFC will take on Toluca. The winners of those matchups will advance to the final.

The takeaway

Nashville SC's historic victory over Club America showcases the growing strength of MLS clubs on the continental stage, while the all-MLS semifinal matchups highlight the league's continued progress in challenging the traditional dominance of Liga MX teams in CONCACAF competitions.