The first interleague showdown of the 2024 edition of Leagues Cup will kick off between Major League Soccer’s Austin FC and LIGA MX’s Pumas at the picturesque Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, on Friday at 9 p.m. ET. With a festive atmosphere almost a certainty and tons of carne asada and hot dogs outside the stadium, this is where Soccer meets Fútbol.
Austin FC faces a markedly different scenario compared to last year. In 2023, Austin FC drew Mexican sides Mazatlán FC and FC Juárez, but were unable advance after suffering a -4 goal differential.
This season presents a new challenge in the form of Pumas (currently second place in LIGA MX) and CF Monterrey (currently fourth in LIGA MX). Adding to the danger, both matches are scheduled within a span of five days, something that Austin coach Josh Wolff and his team are aware of and seeking a hot start to relieve any pressure.
Austin enters Leagues Cup amid escalating tension due to results that leave fans wanting more. Through it all, Austin has added reinforcements like Osman Bukari and Oleksandr Svatok — who are expected to fill gaps in their starting XI in Leagues Cup and beyond.
The unanswered question is whether the home team can go toe-to-toe with one of LIGA MX's powerhouses.
Pumas has an advantage of sorts, knowing how Austin FC's superstar Sebastian Driussi likes to play in attack. In Thursday’s pre-match press conference, Pumas coach Gustavo Lema and captain Ulises Rivas mentioned their familiarity with Driussi from their shared youth national team days. All of that is complimented by Pumas’ stars players like Cesar Huerta.
After Pumas’ elimination at the hands of Queretaro in the Round of 16 last year, the team is determined to exact redemption in 20234. Under the Lema’s management and Huerta’s over-the-ball prowess — illustrated in Wednesday’s 2024 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target — Pumas will aim to set the tone in the first Leagues Cup matchday.
With Concacaf Champions Cup berths up for grabs — and redemption on the line — Austin FC and Pumas will look to start this tournament on the right foot with a statement on Friday.
