2024 Leagues Cup Round of 32 Preview

The Leagues Cup 2024 stage is set for a round of 32 that will separate the contenders from the underdogs. This year’s edition boasts an unprecedented level of talent, with ten Mexican clubs and an equal number of MLS teams competing for the ultimate prize.

Nine of these Mexican representatives earned their place through impressive performances on the group stage, where they displayed tactical acumen, technical prowess, and unwavering determination. Joining this contingent of group-stage qualifiers are the reigning Mexican soccer champions, who have secured their place in the Round of 16 by their domestic triumph.

2024 Leagues Cup Round of 32: LAFC vs. Austin FC

LAFC, the MLS Cup 2022 champions, have established themselves as a dominant force in recent years, with a star-studded roster, and will be looking to lift the trophy in this Leagues Cup 2024. Their fluid attacking style and relentless pressing have made them a nightmare for opposing defenses.

LAFC’s strength lies in their ability to dominate possession and create chances in abundance. With the creative genius of Mateusz Bogusz and the clinical finishing of Olivier Giroud, they have the potential to dismantle any opposition on their day. However, their defense has shown vulnerabilities at times, and Austin FC’s high-pressing style could exploit those weaknesses. The Californian side finished second in Group G and are coming off a penalty kick loss to the Whitecaps.

On the other hand, Austin FC has quickly become one of the most exciting teams in the league. Led by the charismatic Josh Wolff, they play an aggressive, high-pressure brand of soccer that has caught the attention of neutrals and pundits alike. With a dynamic attacking trio of Sebastian Driussi, Gyasi Zardes, and Jáder Obrian, they possess the firepower to trouble any defense.

Austin pulled off a surprise by leading Group A with two wins over Pumas and Monterrey from the Liga MX.

For this match, our prediction is a win for LAFC.

LAFC vs. Austin FC Betting Pick: LAFC

2024 Leagues Cup Round of 32: Inter Miami vs. Toronto

Inter Miami, led by the charismatic ownership group of David Beckham and Jorge Mas, has been steadily building a formidable team capable of challenging the established powers in MLS. Right now, with Luis Suarez, Leo Messi, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and a great crop of young players, Inter is aiming to retain its title at the 2023 edition of the Leagues Cup.

Luis Suarez and company finished second in Group N with a win against Puebla and a loss to Tigres. However, let’s remember that Messi is still not with the team, after suffering a foot injury in the final of the Copa America 2024.

On the other hand, Toronto FC, with its rich history and passionate fan base, has been a force to be reckoned with in the Leagues Cup. Led by the dynamic duo of Lorenzo Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi, they will look to leverage their experience and tactical expertise to overcome their Eastern Conference rivals.

Toronto topped Group J ahead of Pachuca and New York RB, so, they come into this Round of 32 with a lot of confidence.

For this match, our prediction is a win for Inter Miami.

Inter Miami vs. Toronto Betting Pick: Inter Miami

2024 Leagues Cup Round of 32: Orlando City vs. Cruz Azul

Orlando City has been a force to be reckoned with in MLS history, with their fluid attacking style and resolute defense propelling them to the upper echelons of the standings. However, the team has failed to maintain a consistent pace of play that would allow them to close in on Inter Miami at the top of the Eastern Conference. In this Leagues Cup, Orlando managed to take first place in Group M, ahead of Montreal and Atlético San Luis.

On the other hand, Cruz Azul’s Liga MX campaign has been brilliant, as they are currently sharing the lead in the Apertura 2024 with Pumas and Tigres. The fact is, the Mexican team has a wealth of experience and talent within its ranks, both of which are capable of producing match-winning performances on their day.

In this Leagues Cup, they managed to survive Group O, which they shared with the MLS franchises Philadelphia Union and Charlotte FC.

For this match, our winner’s chip is in Orlando City.

Orlando City vs. Cruz Azul Betting Pick: Orlando City

2024 Leagues Cup Round of 32: FC Cincinnati vs. Santos Laguna

FC Cincinnati managed to take first place in Group L, ahead of NYC FC and Queretaro.

This match represents an opportunity to showcase their growth on the continental stage. Their resolute defense and counterattacking prowess have been the hallmarks of their success thus far, but theywill need to raise their game to new heights against the potent Santos Laguna attack.

In the Group Stage, Santos finished second in Group K with one win and one loss. Now, they face the second-best team in MLS at the moment, so they will have to play their best game if they want to be decisive.

For this match, our betting selection is a win for FC Cincinnati.

FC Cincinnati vs. Santos Laguna Betting Pick: FC Cincinnati