The Estadio Azteca just hosted the 2026 FIFA World Cup and now will witness a Leagues Cup match between San Diego FC and Club America.

This will be SDFC’s third game in Mexico and second in Mexico City, but the first time the Southern California club plays at the Azteca.

San Diego lost 1-0 against Pumas UNAM and defeated Toluca 3-2 in their previous games in Mexican territory.

The Azul and Chrome side has already played three MLS games since the end of the World Cup and has only won one game. This lone victory came against FC Dallas on July 25 and is recently coming off a 1-1 draw against Minnesota.

Recent reports suggest that Hirving Lozano will be joining the LA Galaxy, as there still needs to be work on this roster. With room to sign a Designated Player, it is a mystery as to why SDFC has not attempted to bring in a big name.

San Diego is currently 13th on the MLS Western Conference table as this season has been a shadow of last year’s success. SDFC’s offense has been a significant problem as it has failed to score more than one goal in the team’s last three games.

Anders Dreyer’s production has slowed down, and he will need to be productive in this Leagues Cup to ensure success.

Club America is arguably the most historic team in Mexican soccer and the most popular as well. Las Aguilas are nearly always in contention for the Liga MX title and will be one of the top contenders in this Leagues Cup.

America is undefeated in its first three games to start the new season with victories against Queretaro and Santos Laguna, and a draw against Atlante.

Renato Veiga is clearly the focal point of Los Azulcremas’ attack, providing creativity from the attacking midfield slot. The Brazilian playmaker has not scored yet this season, but is always a threat to make an impact.

There are questions about America’s attack with an aging Henry Martin at striker, but the club did recently sign Oscar Perea. Alejandro Zendejas is also yet to play after the World Cup and will be unavailable for this match.

There are some absences and inconsistencies within this Club America roster, but the Mexican team is clearly on a much better run of form than San Diego FC.

The Liga MX team will also have the massive home-field advantage and is clearly the heavy favorite heading into this game.

Francisco Velasco

Francisco, 28, Chula Vista/Tijuana. I have been a Padres fan all my life, did most of the series previews and recaps in the Padres’ 2016 season for EVT. Now I focus more on the local soccer scene. Tijuana Xolos, San Diego FC, San Diego Wave. I have covered Liga MX, MLS, Mexico National Team, USWNT, Copa América and European clubs like Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund.