Leagues Cup: Messi's sole trophy in Miami features five Club World Cup participants

All is in readiness for the start of a new edition of the Leagues Cup, the competition that pits teams from MLS against those from the Mexican League. Following initial trial years of the tournament and in a friendly format, this will be the third official edition of a tournament that has steadily grown in importance and prominence.

So far, there are only two champions: Inter Miami and Columbus Crew. The Herons, spearheaded by Lionel Messi, were the inaugural champions of this competition since it gained official status, defeating Nashville in a thrilling final decided by a penalty shoot-out. This triumph marked the first title in the history of David Beckham's franchise.

In last year's edition, Columbus Crew emerged victorious, overcoming Los Angeles FC 3-1 on home turf. The roll of honour is completed by Cruz Azul (2019) and Leon (2021), who were crowned champions when the tournament was not yet officially recognised.

Teams from MLS and the Mexican League are increasingly competitive, even against European powerhouses.

Clear evidence of this was seen in the recent Club World Cup, where as many as five Mexican and American teams participated (Monterrey, Pachuca, Los Angeles FC, Seattle Sounders and Inter Miami).

In addition, Leon also qualified for the intercontinental event, and America contended for a place until the very last moment.

Inter Miami defeated Porto, while Monterrey forced a draw against Inter, the Champions League runners-up, for example. This further demonstrates that the Leagues Cup is a tournament that has been steadily gaining prestige and is certain to deliver some major clashes.