Atlético Ottawa, Forge FC, Vancouver Whitecaps, and Vancouver FC have learned their international club rivals for the 2026 regional champion’s tournament. These teams earned their spots in the CONCACAF Champions Cup based on their performances last season, competing against top teams from North and Central America.
The CPL playoff champions, Atlético Ottawa, will make their cup debut against Nashville SC from Major League Soccer, which includes Canadian player Jacob Shaffelburg from Port Williams, N.S. Forge FC, the regular season champions and frequent tournament participants, will face Tigres UNAL from Monterrey, Mexico.
Vancouver FC, making their inaugural appearance in the tournament due to their progress in the Canadian Championship, will go up against defending champions Cruz Azul from Mexico City. The Vancouver Whitecaps from the MLS will meet Costa Rica’s Club Sport Cartaginés after experiencing two championship defeats. The victor will advance to face the Seattle Sounders.
The first round of the tournament will consist of two games in February, with specific dates and locations for the Canadian matches yet to be announced. The CPL teams are seen as underdogs, with Cruz Azul being the highest-ranked team in the region. However, a victory in the opening round could lead to a potential matchup against another Mexican or MLS team.
The winner of the Ottawa versus Nashville clash will face Inter Miami and star player Lionel Messi in the next stage of the competition.