Concacaf Champions Cup

Monterrey eliminated from Concacaf Champions Cup: Who will Cruz Azul play in the quarterfinals?

Cruz Azul moves on in the Concacaf Champions Cup after edging Monterrey, setting up a high-stakes quarterfinal clash.

Adrian Macias

Update: Mar 18th, 2026 04:42 EDT

Rayados de Monterrey came up short in their quest to reach the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals, falling to Cruz Azul 4-3 on aggregate in the round of 16. With the La Máquina moving on, they now have a new opponent lined up for the next stage.

Cruz Azul to face MLS’s LAFC

Cruz Azul will meet Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC, who earned their quarterfinal spot by defeating Costa Rica’s Alajuelense. The winner of this matchup will stay on track for a chance to qualify for the FIFA Club World Cup, one of the most prestigious competitions in club football worldwide.

La Máquina continue excellent Liga MX form

Cruz Azul is enjoying a solid run domestically as the current league leaders in Liga MX. Now, they are carrying that momentum into the Concacaf Champions Cup. A victory in the regional tournament would secure another shot at global competition, something the club has experienced in previous seasons.

A last-minute goal sends LAFC to the Quarter-finals! pic.twitter.com/eHJHYW9IzA
— Concacaf Champions Cup (@TheChampions) March 18, 2026

LAFC holding steady in MLS

Meanwhile, LAFC has made a strong start in Major League Soccer, sitting second in the Western Conference and level on points with Vancouver Whitecaps. Their performance in the U.S. league reflects a team capable of competing at a high level ahead of this continental showdown.

Cruz Azul’s Concachampions outlook

With their win over Monterrey, Cruz Azul becomes the first team to officially reach the quarterfinals this season, followed by LAFC. If they maintain their form, a semifinal clash against Toluca could be on the horizon - provided the Diablos Rojas overcomes San Diego FC.