PHOENIX, Ariz. — One of the most anticipated club matchups in North America is officially set.
Cruz Azul will travel to South Florida to face MLS Cup champions Inter Miami CF in the 2026 Michelob ULTRA Campeones Cup on Wednesday, Sept. 16, at Inter Miami’s new home, Nu Stadium. The annual showdown pits the reigning champions of Major League Soccer against the champions of Liga MX in a winner-take-all battle for continental bragging rights.
The matchup was confirmed after Cruz Azul defeated Toluca 3-1 in the Campeón de Campeones, earning the right to represent Liga MX in this year’s edition of the competition.
A Familiar Rivalry
This won’t be the first meeting between the two clubs.
Their previous encounter came on July 21, 2023, in the opening match of the Leagues Cup. The night became one of the most iconic moments in Inter Miami history as Lionel Messi made his club debut and delivered a stunning stoppage-time free kick to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Cruz Azul.
More than three years later, La Máquina has an opportunity for revenge, this time with silverware on the line.
Cruz Azul Arrives in Strong Form
Cruz Azul enters the competition riding significant momentum.
The Mexico City club recently captured the Campeón de Campeones title with an impressive 3-1 victory over Toluca, showcasing the quality that has made them one of the favorites in Liga MX entering the Apertura season.
José Paradela starred with two goals in the final, while captain Carlos Rodríguez added another as Cruz Azul lifted its fourth Campeón de Campeones trophy.
Defensively, goalkeeper Kevin Mier continues to establish himself as one of Liga MX’s elite shot-stoppers, while Colombian center back Willer Ditta anchors a back line that has consistently delivered in big matches. Midfielder Érik Lira, fresh off representing Mexico at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, remains the heartbeat of the squad, with striker Gabriel Fernández providing a dangerous attacking presence.
Inter Miami Looking to Defend Home Turf
For Inter Miami, the match represents another opportunity to add international silverware while showcasing its new home, Nu Stadium.
As reigning MLS Cup champions, the Herons will host the eighth edition of the Campeones Cup, where Liga MX currently holds a slight edge in the all-time series with four victories compared to MLS’s three.
With stars like Lionel Messi still leading the club, Miami will look to continue its recent success against Mexican opposition.
More Than a Trophy
The Campeones Cup has quickly become one of the premier cross-league competitions in North America, serving as another chapter in the growing rivalry between MLS and Liga MX.
Beyond lifting another trophy, the match offers both clubs an opportunity to measure themselves against the best their neighboring league has to offer before international competitions continue later in the season.
For Cruz Azul supporters, however, there’s another storyline.
A chance to rewrite the ending of one of the most memorable nights in Inter Miami history.
Match Details
- Competition: 2026 Michelob ULTRA Campeones Cup
- Match: Inter Miami CF vs. Cruz Azul
- Date: Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026
- Venue: Nu Stadium – Miami, Florida
- Broadcast: Streaming worldwide on Apple TV
