Concacaf Champions Cup: Monterrey vs. Cruz Azul Set for March 10, 2026

By Vikram Nair / 12.03.2026

Excitement Builds for Upcoming Matches

“We’re expecting another very difficult round,” said FC Cincinnati coach Pat Noonan as his team prepares for their Round of 16 matchup against Tigres UANL on March 12, 2026. This sentiment resonates throughout the tournament, as teams gear up for intense competition in the Concacaf Champions Cup.

The upcoming match between Monterrey and Cruz Azul is set to kick off at 9 p.m. ET on March 10, 2026, at the Estadio BBVA Bancomer. Fans can look forward to watching the match live, as it will be available to stream for free on YouTube. This encounter is part of a larger narrative in the tournament, where teams from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean compete for regional supremacy.

Historical Context and Rivalries

Last year’s tournament saw FC Cincinnati eliminated by Tigres UANL, a result that has left a mark on the team. Defender Miles Robinson reflected on this, stating, “I think there’s a little bit of a chip on our shoulder after they knocked us off last year.” This rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity to their upcoming clash.

Meanwhile, LAFC faced Alajuelense in their Round of 16 matchup, where they played to a 1-1 draw in the first leg. LAFC’s Denis Bouanga scored the equalizing goal in the 56th minute, marking his fourth goal of the 2026 Champions Cup, making him the top scorer in the competition this year. The second leg of this matchup is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

Defensive Streaks and Challenges

In the same match against Alajuelense, Alejandro Bran’s goal in the 44th minute ended a remarkable streak for LAFC, which had gone 443 minutes without conceding a goal in all competitions. This defensive record highlights the challenges teams face as they progress through the tournament.

As the Concacaf Champions Cup continues, LAFC remains unbeaten in 2026, boasting a record of 5-0-1. Prior to Alajuelense’s goal, LAFC had not allowed a goal at home in the Champions Cup for 479 minutes, showcasing their strong defensive capabilities.

Looking Ahead

With the tournament heating up, teams are eager to make their mark. The next matches promise to deliver high-stakes soccer, with each team vying for a place in the next round. As the competition unfolds, fans can expect thrilling moments and fierce rivalries in the Concacaf Champions Cup.