The stage is set and the stakes have never been higher. This Sunday, the Leagues Cup tournament culminates in a highly anticipated final between two of Major League Soccer's titans: Seattle Sounders FC and Inter Miami CF. For over a month, 36 clubs from MLS and Liga MX have battled for regional supremacy, and now only two remain. The winner will not only claim the coveted Leagues Cup trophy but also earn a bye to the Round of 16 in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, solidifying their place among the best in North America.
The Road to the Final
Both teams have followed different yet equally impressive paths to the final. The Seattle Sounders have been a model of consistency and collective strength throughout the tournament. They were the only team from either league to secure a perfect nine points in Phase One. Their defense has been a fortress, conceding just two goals in five matches, and they've been relentless in attack, scoring 13 goals. In the knockout stage, they survived a penalty shootout against Liga MX powerhouse Pachuca and then delivered a dominant 2-0 victory over the LA Galaxy in the semifinals. Key players like Pedro De La Vega and Osaze De Rosario have stepped up to lead the charge.
Inter Miami's journey, on the other hand, has been defined by late-game heroics and the undeniable magic of their star-studded roster. They navigated a tricky Phase One with two wins and a penalty shootout win against Necaxa to secure their spot in the knockouts. In the quarterfinals, they overcame a formidable Tigres UANL squad with two goals from Luis Suárez, and then, in the semifinals against fierce rivals Orlando City, Lionel Messi returned from injury to score a crucial brace in a stunning 3-1 comeback victory. Miami's ability to pull out a result when it matters most has proven to be their greatest asset.
Stakes and Significance
This final is more than just a trophy—it's a battle for bragging rights and a spot in continental competition. While both finalists have already secured a place in the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup, the tournament winner gets an express ticket to the Round of 16. This provides a huge advantage in a grueling competition that qualifies teams for the FIFA Club World Cup. The match also serves as a high-profile showdown between two of the most successful clubs in recent MLS history. Seattle, with eight major trophies to their name, are looking to add their first Leagues Cup title, while Miami hopes to claim their second Leagues Cup trophy in three years and further cement their status as a global force.
Tournament Format and Key Players
The Leagues Cup 2025 featured a unique format designed to fuel intense matchups and competition. Phase One saw teams from MLS and Liga MX play against each other, but earn points on separate league-specific tables, with the top four from each league advancing to the knockout rounds. The new point system awarded three points for a win in regulation, and a bonus point for a penalty shootout win after a draw, creating dramatic moments from the start.
Players to Watch:
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF): The Argentine maestro is the gravitational force of this Miami team. He returns to the final in scorching form, having scored a crucial brace in the semifinals. Expect him to create chances and deliver moments of individual brilliance that can change the game.
Luis Suárez (Inter Miami CF): A proven goalscorer, Suárez has been a key contributor in the tournament with three goals. His chemistry with Messi and his clinical finishing make him a constant threat in the box.
Pedro De La Vega (Seattle Sounders FC): The young Argentine Designated Player has been a revelation for the Sounders, scoring three goals from the wing and providing the creative spark for their offense. His blistering pace and skill will be critical against Miami's defense.
Osaze De Rosario (Seattle Sounders FC): Stepping up in the absence of suspended striker Danny Musovski, De Rosario has proven his worth with three goals in the tournament. His physicality and work rate will be vital in leading the line for the Sounders.
Broadcast Information
Don't miss a minute of the action! The Leagues Cup Final kicks off on Sunday, August 31, at 8:00 p.m. ET / 5:00 p.m. PT. The match will be broadcast in English and Spanish on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV, with select linear broadcasts also available on Univision and TUDN.