Leagues Cup night two is in the rearview mirror as another host of sides got their tournaments underway across the United States. Here is what went down around the grounds.
What happened
Jul 27, 2024; Harrison, New Jersey, USA; Toronto FC goalkeeper Sean Johnson (1) is hugged by midfielder Kosi Thompson (47) after winning in overtime penalty kicks against the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Tournament holders Inter Miami kicked off their campaign with an impressive win against Puebla thanks to goals from Matías Rojas and Luis Suárez in Fort Lauderdale.
Meanwhile, Sean Johnson pulled off some penalty-shootout heroics after Toronto and New York Red Bulls finished in a goalless draw at Red Bull Arena, earning the Canadian club the extra point on the night.
Atlas finally got a Mexican club on the board with a big win in Houston thanks to a second-half stunner from Rivaldo Lozano.
In the other all-MLS matchups, St. Louis City new-boy Marcel Hartel‘s early second-half penalty earned City all three points against FC Dallas, who missed a penalty of their own. Plus, Philadelphia eased past Charlotte to kick off their campaign with a narrow win.
After the Revolution earned a gutsy 1-0 victory over Mazatlán, San Jose nearly pulled off a shock victory before full-time against Mexican giants Chivas, but a Roberto Alvarado strike in the eighth minute of stoppage time sent the game to penalties. Luckily for the Earthquakes faithful however, their side picked up the extra point after penalties.
Moment of the night
The cross, the finish, the scenes. It doesn’t get much better than a 98th minute equalizer.
Player of the night
Sean Johnson always the answer the call.
What this means
The Mexican clubs continue to struggle, though they’ve finally picked up their first win thanks to Atlas’ victory in Houston. Of the 11 groups that have begun play as Saturday, 10 are topped by an MLS club.
A few of the Mexican giants are yet to play, and those sides will serve as Liga MX’s best chance at success in the tournament, but it’s a slow start from MLS’ rivals from down south.
What comes next
The action continues on Sunday as six more teams are in action. For the standout tie of the night we head to the Pacific Northwest where a Portland Timbers side who have been hot in MLS as of late will take on León.