The stage is set for a unique CONCACAF Champions Cup Final. On one end, it’s the red-hot Vancouver Whitecaps, and on the other, it’s Liga MX’s historic side Cruz Azul. For once, the tables may have turned in MLS’ favor.
The Vancouver Whitecaps aren’t the CONCACAF Champions Cup finalists MLS expected — but they’re red-hot heading into the championship match nonetheless. The ‘Caps are on a roll. They’re the best side in MLS in 2025 and have reached the final by leaving behind an impressive list of top teams from the region, including Costa Rica’s Saprissa, Liga MX’s Monterrey and Pumas UNAM, and Lionel Messi’s aging Inter Miami.
Through the tactical discipline instilled by Jesper Sørensen, the Whitecaps are a direct and lethal attacking team, but they present a rarity in MLS — a defensively sound unit. That defensive solidity is the hallmark of many Danish teams, where Sørensen began his coaching career.
In the way of the Whitecaps is Cruz Azul, who had a more direct path to the final. The Mexican club crushed Real Hope of Haiti, easily dispatched the Seattle Sounders, and pulled off shock eliminations against Liga MX counterparts Club América and Tigres.
Manager Vicente Sánchez, who had multiple stints in both Liga MX and MLS as a player, favors a three-man back line and often plays with up to three forwards. The Uruguayan, still officially an interim coach, has compiled an impressive 12-1-8 record.
Known for constant tactical adjustments and frequent lineup changes, Sánchez has so far succeeded in guiding Cruz Azul to their first major international final since 2014 — when they won what was then the CONCACAF Champions League.
The final, set for June 1 in Mexico City, should be an entertaining battle between two in-form squads. Here’s how the two sides compare:
Goalkeeper
Cruz Azul boasts Colombian keeper Kevin Mier. Like many Colombian goalkeepers, he’s an excellent shot-stopper and is unafraid to play with the ball at his feet. Mier joined the club in 2024, and has had a stellar run thus far, dominating between the posts.
The Whitecaps counter with Yohei Takaoka, who has been a strong shot-stopper and a commanding presence in his area as well. He also excels at saving penalties, which could be crucial if the final goes the distance.
Advantage: Cruz Azul
Defense
Cruz Azul often shifts between a three-man or four-man backline, but expect them to line up with three at the back for the final. The Whitecaps will likely stick with their consistent 4-3-3 formation, with Édier Ocampo providing a major attacking threat down the flank.
Vancouver has been rock-solid defensively all season and have reached the final through hard work and discipline. Their experience playing three major away games during the tournament will also be an asset.
Advantage: Vancouver Whitecaps
Midfield
Uruguayan duo Gabriel Fernández and Ignacio Rivero provide energy and attacking drive for Cruz Azul, while Carlos Rodríguez has been a creative pivot, delivering a number of assists for La Máquina.
For the Whitecaps, no player in MLS is hotter right now than Sebastian Berhalter in terms of consistent performances — but he’ll be out of the final due to yellow card accumulation. Still, there’s plenty to like about Vancouver’s midfield. Pedro Vite appears destined for European soccer thanks to his standout play, and Andrés Cubas adds grit as a hard-nosed central midfielder. The wildcard could be Ryan Gauld, who may return from injury in time to make an impact off the bench.
Advantage: Vancouver Whitecaps
Forward
For the Whitecaps, it’s all about Brian White. With six goals in the competition, he has elevated his game and is now on the radar of the United States men’s national team. If Cruz Azul can contain him, they have a chance. If not, La Máquina could be in trouble.
Cruz Azul’s main threat is Ángel Sepúlveda, who leads the tournament with seven goals. Capable of playing as a lone striker or in a duo, the 34-year-old veteran could be facing the defining match of his career.
Advantage: Vancouver Whitecaps
Who wins?
For the first time in a long while, an MLS team looks poised to win the CONCACAF Champions Cup outright. The Vancouver Whitecaps — currently in the midst of a team ownership transition — have defied the odds to reach the final.
Sørensen has crafted a defensively disciplined squad that could make history by capturing the biggest trophy in club history.
All in for the Vancouver Whitecaps to win the CCC and become the most unlikely champions MLS has ever produced.
