Colorado Rapids Stuns Club America in Leagues Cup Upset

MLS Underdogs Triumph Over Mexican Powerhouse

Rapids Advance to Semi-Finals, Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union Join Them

(Denver, CO - July 22, 2023) - Major League Soccer (MLS) underdog Colorado Rapids stunned Liga MX giants Club America 3-1 in the quarterfinals of the Leagues Cup on Saturday, securing a place in the semi-finals.

Rapids' Upset Victory

* The Rapids, who won the MLS Cup last season, took an early lead through a Diego Rubio goal. * Club America equalized in the second half, but the Rapids regained the lead with a Jack Price penalty. * Michael Barrios sealed the victory with a late goal, sending Club America crashing out of the tournament.

MLS Teams Advance

* Reigning MLS champions Columbus Crew also advanced to the semi-finals with a 2-0 victory over Liga MX's Atlas. * The Philadelphia Union joined them after a 3-1 win over FC Juarez.

Leagues Cup Expansion

* The Leagues Cup, which brings together MLS and Liga MX teams, is expanding to a 16-team format in 2024. * The group stage schedule, venues, and bracket were announced Thursday. * The tournament aims to increase the value of both leagues and attract more viewers.

Background

* The Leagues Cup is a single-elimination tournament that began in 2019. * MLS teams have won two of the three previous editions. * The tournament is seen as a way for MLS to improve its global standing and for Liga MX to expand its reach into the United States.

Conclusion

The Colorado Rapids' upset victory over Club America is a testament to the growing strength of MLS. With three teams advancing to the semi-finals, MLS is sending a message that it can compete with the best of Liga MX. The Leagues Cup is a major opportunity for both leagues to showcase their talent and increase their popularity.