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LAFC Wins Leagues Cup Shootout, Bouanga Ties Messi

8/6/2026

Summary

LAFC Wins

On August 6, 2026, LAFC beat Chivas de Guadalajara on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the 2026 Leagues Cup.
Denis Bouanga scored in the 38th minute, Thomas Hasal saved a spot-kick, and 17-year-old Jude Terry converted the decisive sixth penalty.
Bouanga’s goal tied Lionel Messi with 14 Leagues Cup goals, gave LAFC an extra point, and prompted manager Marc Dos Santos to announce a Saturday match versus Toluca.

Summary

Inter Miami Grind

The 2026 Leagues Cup will feature 36 clubs—18 MLS and 18 Liga MX—and grant 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup champion, runner-up and third-place spots.
Inter Miami must play six group matches in 18 days, including two Wednesdays, Saturday and a quick trip to Nashville, forcing tight nutrition and recovery.
Nu Stadium’s opening adds Miami Slice pizza, La Birra Bar Argentine burgers, $30-$40 tickets, and one 12-by-6-inch clear bag or one-gallon freezer bag allowed.

History

Historical Context

In July 2007 the inaugural SuperLiga invited four MLS clubs and four Liga MX clubs to compete, marking the first official cross-border club tournament sanctioned by CONCACAF. The competition ran through 2010 and demonstrated demand for regular North-American matchups, leading MLS and Liga MX to launch the Leagues Cup in 2019, which expanded to include all clubs by 2023.

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LAFC Wins

On August 6, 2026, LAFC beat Chivas de Guadalajara on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the 2026 Leagues Cup.
Denis Bouanga scored in the 38th minute, Thomas Hasal saved a spot-kick, and 17-year-old Jude Terry converted the decisive sixth penalty.
Bouanga’s goal tied Lionel Messi with 14 Leagues Cup goals, gave LAFC an extra point, and prompted manager Marc Dos Santos to announce a Saturday match versus Toluca.

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