Preview | Union host Carranza, Necaxa in Leagues Cup clash

Philadelphia Union continue their third-ever Leagues Cup campaign with their second match of the tournament, hosting Necaxa on Sunday, August 9th. The match marks the return of former Union striker Julian Carranza for the first time since his transfer in June 2024 so click here for tickets or tune in on Apple TV to watch the action.

Phase One opener vs Cruz Azul

Philadelphia Union fell 1-0 to Cruz Azul on Thursday night, conceding a third minute goal from José Paradela. Despite a stronger second half, multiple scoring opportunities, and determined push until the final whistle, the Boys in Blue were unable to overcome that early deficit.

Phase One, Match Two

Only the top four teams in each league table will advance to the knockout round in this year's Leagues Cup format, so it'll be challenging for Philly to overcome their opening loss to Cruz Azul.

Next up, they'll take on Club Necaxa, who also opened their Leagues Cup tournament with a loss, falling 2-0 Chicago Fire on Thursday night.

The side based in Aguascalientes and owned by a star-studded cast of investors including Eva Longoria sit at 8th in the Liga MX standings after two wins and a loss to start their Apertura campaign. They've scored five goals in that span -- three of which, plus an assist, coming from the foot of familiar face for Union faithful, former Union striker Julian Carranza.

Carranza spent three seasons with the Philadelphia Union from 2022-2024, recording 34 goals and 13 assists across all competitions, and plus most notably playing an integral role in the club’s historic '22 season that culminated in an MLS Cup Final against LAFC.

He made the move to Europe in June 2024, signing with Eredivisie side Feyenoord, competing and scoring in the UEFA Champions League. After a stop on loan at Leicester City on loan, the 26-year-old Argentinian made his way to the Mexican powerhouse, now in his second season.

What is Leagues Cup?

Leagues Cup is an annual, Concacaf-sanctioned tournament that brings together 18 LIGA MX teams and 18 qualified MLS clubs in a fully interleague format, to play for a Concacaf Champions Cup qualification. The top three finishers will earn Concacaf Champions Cup qualification -- the Leagues Cup champion advances directly to the CCC Round of 16.