Preview: LAFC vs Cruz Azul Prediction, lineups, betting tips & odds | Concacaf Champions Cup 2026 quarter-final first leg
This is going to be the second-ever clash between these clubs.
Los Angeles FC (LAFC) are all set to lock horns with Cruz Azul in what will be their first-leg quarterfinal fixture of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. The BMO Stadium is going to witness this entertaining outing.
The Black and Gold will be at home for their upcoming continental competition match, which will be a big advantage. They have performed decently since the beginning of the season and haven’t tasted a defeat in their last 10 games.
Marc Dos Santos’s men are coming in after securing a dominating 6-0 win against Orlando City in what was a Major League Soccer outing. They did a good job in the attacking front and did not disappoint in the defensive back. Los Angeles FC will be eager to put up similar performances going forward.
On the other hand, Cruz Azul are coming in after facing a 1-2 loss against Pachuca. La Maquina tried to make a comeback, but fell prey to the nine-man Tuzos. This is now going to keep them under pressure for their upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup fixture.
The Nicolás Larcamón-led side have performed decently since the start of the season. Their performances in their last four games have not been good enough. They need to find the rhythm back. The game against LAFC is going to be a tough one for them
Kick-off:
- Location: Los Angeles, California, USA
- Stadium: BMO Stadium
- Date: Wednesday, April 8
- Kick-off Time: 07:30 AM IST/ 02:00 AM GMT (Tuesday, April 7; 09:00 PM ET/ 06:00 PM PT)
- Referee: Keylor Antonio Herrera Villalobos
- VAR: In use
Form:
LAFC: D-W-W-D-W
Cruz: W-D-D-D-L
Players to Watch
Denis Bouanga (LAFC)
Denis Bouanga is coming in after netting in a sensational hat-trick for Los Angeles FC in their MLS clash against Orlando City. He will be ready to lead his side in the attacking front from the left flank and is going to be a constant threat to the opponent’s defence. In four Concacaf Champions Cup games, he has scored four goals and will be eager to add more to his tally.
Nicolas Ibanez (Cruz Azul)
Nicolas Ibanez will be looking to step up his game so that he can come up with a top performance and get his side back to winning ways. In three fixtures of the continental competition of the ongoing campaign, he has scored two goals. The 31-year-old is going to lead the attack from the front for Cruz Azul.
Match Facts
- Los Angeles FC are undefeated in their last 10 matches.
- Cruz Azul have failed to secure a win in their last four outings.
- The only clash between these clubs ended in favour of the Black and Gold.
LAFC vs Cruz Azul: Betting Tips and Odds
- Los Angeles FC to win
- Denis Bouanga to score
- Goals over 3.5
Injury and Team News
Igor Jesus, Aaron Long, Lorenzo Dellavalle and Stephen Eustaquio are not going to be in action for LAFC. They are injured.
Cruz Azul will be without the services of Jesus Orozco. He is injured, but might return to action during mid-April 2026. Carlos Rodolfo Rotondi might also sit out due to a lack of fitness.
Head-to-Head
Total matches: 1
LAFC won: 1
Cruz won: 0
Draws: 0
Predicted Lineups
LAFC predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Lloris (GK); Palencia, Porteous, Tafari, Hollingshead; Tillman, Delgado; Boyd, Ordaz, Bouanga; Son
Cruz Azul predicted lineup (3-4-2-1)
Gudiño (GK); Ditta, Garcia, Piovi; Rodarte, Rodriguez, Márquez, Ebere; Paradela, Rosemary; Ibáñez
Match Prediction
Los Angeles FC at the BMO Stadium are going to have an edge against Cruz Azul. The Marc Dos Santos-led side have been on a good run of form, but the same cannot be said for La Maquina.
The Black and Gold are likely to come up with a strong performance and might secure a win in their upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup game.
Prediction: LAFC 3-1 Cruz Azul
Telecast Details
India: FanCode
USA: TUDN USA
Mexico: Fox One
When and where is LAFC vs Cruz Azul Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal?
The match will be contested at the BMO Stadium on Tuesday, April 7, at 9:00 p.m. ET.
Where and how to watch Concacaf Champions Cup live in India?
The FanCode app and website can be used to view all the games live.
Where and how to watch Concacaf Champions Cup live in USA?
Fans can tune into TUDN to watch the matches live in the United States of America.
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Dilpreet is a dedicated football writer with a keen eye for World Football. As a proud Real Madrid fan, we believe his work reflects the same ambition and precision. Since joining Khel Now in 2025, he has crafted stories beyond scores, diving into tactics, culture, and emotion. With a strong background in content writing, he blends clarity with creativity, always aiming to bring the beautiful game closer to readers.