Campeones Cup 2026: Inter Miami to host Toluca or Cruz Azul in showdown at Messi’s home stadium

Inter Miami and Lionel Messi now know the date and place for their next international test: the 2026 Campeones Cup will be played on September 16 at NU Stadium, the pink‑and‑black fortress Messi calls home. Their opponent will come from Mexico — either Toluca or Cruz Azul, the two most recent Liga MX champions who will face off in the Campeón de Campeones match.

According to the official announcement, “Inter Miami’s opponent will be determined on July 25 during the Campeón de Campeones, where Toluca FC (Apertura 2025 champion) will face Cruz Azul (Clausura 2026 champion). The winner will automatically become Liga MX’s representative for the 2026 Michelob ULTRA Campeones Cup.”

Liga MX vs. MLS: a rivalry with history

Of the seven editions played so far, Liga MX leads the series 4–3, with Toluca the most recent winner after beating LA Galaxy in a penalty shootout. The matchup has become one of the most intriguing MLS‑Liga MX clashes each year, and this time it could feature Messi facing a Mexican club with a trophy on the line.

Another Messi vs. Mexico chapter — but first, the World Cup

If Toluca or Cruz Azul end up facing Inter Miami, it will add another high‑profile chapter to Messi’s long history against Mexican teams. But before thinking about the Campeones Cup, the Argentine star is focused on defending his World Cup crown later this summer.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.