Not familiar with the Leagues Cup? You can read all about the tournament here.

There’s some unusual terminology employed here. The group stages are organized into Phases, with three Matchdays happening within them.

Inter Miami CF vs. Atlas

Last week’s taut but ultimately disappointing draw against Philly Union should leave them hungry to get a win here. Club Atlas aren’t one of the stronger LigaMX sides, and you think a side with Miami’s quality should handle them. Messi is available, but will Mascherano start him?

Necaxa vs. Atlanta United FC

Nexaca have a balanced 3W, 3L, 4D in their last ten. They also finished a solid fifth in the Clausera. Measure this up against Atlanta’s dismal showing this MLS season and you’ll find the “visitors” wanting. Don’t forget, all matches are playing in the U.S. or Canada, so even visiting teams may have the benefit of a home-friendly crowd. Atlanta desperately need a goal from their expensive DP pair of Emmanuel Latte Lath and Miguel Almirón.

Pumas UNAM vs. Orlando City SC

Pumas are a wildly inconsistent side, with 4W, 4L, 2D in their last ten. Orlando ironically have the exact same stats, but come into this one off two wins. Orlando is unusual, in that they generally perform better on the road. This should favor Pumas slightly, but this is really a toss-up.

Minnesota United FC vs. Querétaro

Querétaro travel up to Minnesota reeling from a terrible start to the Apertura. They’ve lost three straight and are dead last in the standings. Minnesota United, however, sit comfortably in the top 3 of the Western Conference with 4W, 4D, 2L in their last ten. United should win this by a comfortable margin.

Club América vs. Real Salt Lake

I like the makeup of this fixture. RSL have been on fire lately, with 4 wins in their last five. Club América are a potent threat anytime, anywhere, even if their current form isn’t quite scintillating.

Portland Timbers vs. Atlético de San Luis

Atlético de San Luis are a team in freefall. They’ve lost 12 of their last 18 games. No draws. It’s all or nothing for them. Portland haven’t been perfect, but they have more danger lurking in their side than the visiting team.