Another Robert Taylor Moment! A Messi brace! An upset in Houston! And more! Let’s talk Leagues Cup.
What happened?: New Dallas winger Eugene Ansah made the difference as Dallas advanced to the Round of 16. They’ll face Lionel Messi and Inter Miami next.
So, did we learn anything?: This was a more expected performance from Austin. Dallas deserves credit for getting the job done, and Mazatlán put up a solid fight in this tournament.
What happened?: Nothing really happened until penalty kicks. Houston had the advantage and secured a spot in the Round of 16 with an upset win over the Liga MX team that had a group-stage bye. Their next opponent will be the winner of Charlotte and Cruz Azul.
So, did we learn anything?: Houston showed resilience against one of last year’s top Liga MX teams. They continue to make progress and are moving in the right direction. It’s a significant moment for soccer in Houston.
What happened?: Robert Taylor had a standout performance, providing a primary and secondary assist (even though they don’t count in Leagues Cup). Inter Miami secured a rivalry win and will face FC Dallas in the Round of 16.
So, did we learn anything?: Taylor’s emergence in Leagues Cup has been delightful to watch. His pass to Messi for the first goal was exceptional. Inter Miami and Messi have shown they have the ability to win this tournament and make it to the playoffs.
What happened?: LAFC won convincingly with strong performances from Dénis Bouanga and Carlos Vela. They’re awaiting the winner of León and RSL in the Round of 16.
So, did we learn anything?: LAFC looked refreshed after their break. There were many exciting knockout games tonight. Let’s discuss them with the help of our watchability rating meter, The Plusometer ©.
Atlas vs. New England Revolution | 8 p.m. ET WATCH ON: Apple TV – Free, Plusometer score: 33/50
This promises to be one of the best games of the knockout round. New England is facing a challenging moment with their coach on administrative leave and goalkeeper’s frustration. Atlas will be tough to handle for any team, and New England’s response is uncertain.
New York Red Bulls vs. NYCFC | 8 p.m. ET WATCH ON: Apple TV – Free, Plusometer score: 39/50
A bonus Hudson River Derby for free! Both teams have their own strengths, and NYCFC’s new striker, Monsef Bakrar, made an impact in their previous game. This match will test NYCFC against the Red Bulls’ press.
Philadelphia Union vs. D.C. United | 8 p.m. ET WATCH ON: Apple TV – Free, Plusometer score: 30/50
The Union are considered favorites on their side of the bracket, setting up a favorable path to the final. D.C. United, however, could surprise everyone and upset the Union, even though they struggled against them last season.
Pumas vs. Queretaro | 8 p.m. ET WATCH ON: Apple TV – MLS Season Pass, Plusometer score: 25/50
It’s hard to predict the outcome of this match, but it could be an entertaining one. The winner will face the winner of Atlas vs. New England.
Charlotte FC vs. Cruz Azul | 8:30 p.m. ET WATCH ON: Apple TV – Free, FS1, UniMas, Plusometer score: 29/50
This match takes place in Dallas, under extreme heat conditions. It’s an opportunity for Charlotte to pull off an upset if they can withstand the conditions and find the net.
Club León vs. Real Salt Lake | 10:30 p.m. ET WATCH ON: Apple TV – MLS Season Pass, FS1, UniMas, Plusometer score: 42/50
The game of the night features reigning CCL champions, León, against Real Salt Lake. Despite RSL’s loss to Monterrey, they have the talent to compete. If they bring their A-game, it could be one of the best matches of the tournament.
