Philadelphia Union continue their Concacaf Champions Cup campaign with a must-win matchup in Mexico City against Club America on Wednesday, March 18th. To watch Leg 2 of the Round of 16 clash, tune in on Concacaf Go, FS1, or TUDN to watch the action.
What Happened In Leg One?
The first leg of the Round of 16 matchup took place at Subaru Park -- a competitive battle until the final whistle, but one that ultimately ended in favor of the visitors. The match was highlighted by a 20th minute América goal from Raphael Veiga, and despite a dilligent second half push, América's lead was one that the Union were unable to erase. Head Coach André Jardine and his team left the City of Brotherly Love with a 1-0 victory, so The Boys in Blue will enter this match with ground to make up in order to advance to the tournament's Quarterfinals.Â
What does Philly need to do to advance?
There are multiple rules to consider while watching this matchup, particularly regarding aggregate goals and road goals.
Per Concacaf, if aggregate goals in both the first and second leg matches between the two teams are equal at the end of regulation time of the second leg match, the tie-breaker criteria shall be determined as follows:
- Greater number of away goals scored in regulation time in the two matches.
- If the two teams remain tied, then two fifteen minute periods of extra time shall be played.
- Away goals shall not hold any additional value during extra time
- If the two teams remain tied after the second period of extra-time, then kicks from the penalty spot procedure shall take place per the laws of the game.
- A sixth substitute shall be alowed in extra time.
So, if Philly scores more than one goal and either wins or secures a draw – they’re moving on thanks to away goals. If Philly wins regulation 1-0, they will be equal with América on aggregate and away goals, so the match would first go two fifteen-minute periods of extra time. If it remains level, it'll be decided by penalties.
Also of note, while Wednesday’s match is on the road, it will not take place in Club America’s storied home stadium, Estadio Azteca. The historic venue is currently under renovations in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, so instead, the teams will play in Estadio Ciudad de los Deportes.
What’s on the line?Â
Advancing on Wednesday night would see the Boys in Blue into the Concacaf Champions Cup Quarterfinals, where they'd face off against the winner of Inter Miami vs Nashville SC. That pair drew 0-0 in Nashville, and they'll play at 10pm Eastern Time on Wednesday in Miami.
What is Concacaf Champions Cup?
Concacaf Champion’s Cup is an continental tournament between 27 qualifying clubs from North America, Central American, and the Carribean. The Philadelphia Union are one of nine Major League Soccer teams competing in this year’s edition – they earned a spot when they lifted the 2025 Supporters’ Shield after securing the best regular season record in all of Major League Soccer.
