The 2026 Leagues Cup continues on Sunday with Seattle Sounders hosting Querétaro in a match that could prove important in the group phase.
Seattle’s meeting with the Mexican club is scheduled for August 9 at Lumen Field. It is part of the tournament’s Phase One schedule, with the Sounders also set to face Chivas Guadalajara later in the opening phase.
The 2026 Leagues Cup brings together MLS and Liga MX clubs in a competition that also offers qualification opportunities for the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup.
This year’s tournament has another notable change: some matches are being played in Mexico, while MLS clubs continue to host important fixtures in the United States.
Seattle’s challenge
Seattle will be looking to use home advantage when they meet Querétaro. The Sounders have already begun their Phase One campaign with a trip to Mexico against Toluca before returning home for Sunday’s fixture.
Playing at Lumen Field could give Seattle an important boost as they attempt to collect enough points to progress to the knockout stage.
Why the Leagues Cup matters
The competition has become an important meeting point between two of North America’s strongest domestic football systems.
MLS clubs face the challenge of adapting to different styles, while Liga MX teams are looking to demonstrate their strength against American opposition.
For supporters, the format also provides a series of international-style matchups that are difficult to find during normal league schedules.
Sunday’s Seattle-Querétaro match is therefore more than another summer fixture. It is part of a tournament where every result can influence the race for the knockout rounds.