Overview
- Only the top four MLS teams across the 47-team expanded group stage will reach the quarter-finals, heightening the importance of early results.
- Head coach Javier Mascherano welcomes back Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba and may hand newcomer Rodrigo De Paul his club debut.
- Miami remains without Oscar Ustari, Drake Callender, Ian Fray and Baltasar Rodriguez, and Allen Obando is doubtful for the opener.
- Atlas, led by new coach Gonzalo Pineda, will be missing Edgar Zaldivar and Mauro Manotas with long-term knee injuries.
- Drawn with Orlando City and Atlanta United, both sides must secure points—and navigate potential shootout tiebreakers—to bolster their Leagues Cup and MLS playoff bids.