As Forge FC prepares for its third consecutive campaign in the Concacaf Champions Cup, the anticipation builds ahead of the draw on Tuesday, December 10. Slotted into Pot B, Forge FC could face one of several high-profile opponents from Pot A, which features some of the most storied clubs in the region.
The Pot A
Pot A is stacked with talent, featuring top teams from Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Here’s a breakdown of Forge FC’s potential opponents:
- C.D. Guadalajara (Liga MX)
A potential rematch from the 2024 tournament, C.D. Guadalajara (Also known as Chivas) is a perennial giant of Mexican football. Forge FC will look to improve their performance from last year, where they faced Chivas in a valiant but ultimately losing effort.
Key Players: Cade Cowell, Roberto Alvarado, Fernando Beltrán
Qualifying Method: One of three next best clubs in 2023–24 Liga MX aggregate table
- Cruz Azul (Liga MX)
Another rematch looms with Cruz Azul, who defeated Forge in the 2023 tournament. The Mexican side boasts a wealth of experience in Concacaf competitions and would present a formidable challenge yet again.
Key Players: Ángel Sepúlveda, Ignacio Rivero, Carlos Rodríguez
Qualifying Method: 2023–24 Liga MX Clausura runners-up
- FC Cincinnati (MLS)
One of the rising forces in MLS, FC Cincinnati could be a fascinating opponent for Forge. After dominating the Eastern Conference in 2024, they bring attacking flair and tactical depth to the Champions Cup.
Key Players: DeAndre Yedlin, Luciano Acosta, Yuya Kubo
Qualifying Method:
- Inter Miami (MLS)
The potential draw against Inter Miami is especially enticing, as it could pit Forge against global superstar Lionel Messi (if he remains with the club). The Herons have risen to prominence under co-owner David Beckham and would undoubtedly draw international attention.
Key Players: Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba
Qualifying Method: 2024 Major League Soccer Supporters’ Shield winners
- LAFC (MLS)
The defending MLS Cup champions and a powerhouse in Concacaf competitions, LAFC are an offensive juggernaut. Facing LAFC would be a major test for Forge FC, but it would also be an opportunity to showcase their growth.
Key Players: Hugo Lloris, Denis Bouanga, Cristian Olivera, Olivier Giroud
Qualifying Method: 2024 Leagues Cup runners-up
- Seattle Sounders (MLS)
As one of the most successful clubs in MLS history, Seattle would be another daunting challenge. Their experience in continental competitions and vocal fan base make them a tough draw.
Key Players: Jordan Morris, Stefan Frei, Obed Vargas
Qualifying Method: One of three next best clubs in the 2024 Supporters’ Shield standings
- CF Monterrey (Liga MX)
Known as Rayados, Monterrey are five-time Concacaf Champions Cup winners. Their squad is brimming with international stars and seasoned veterans, making them one of the strongest teams in the draw.
Key Players: Germán Berterame, Sergio Canales, Jesús Corona, Héctor Moreno
Qualifying Method: One of three next best clubs in 2023–24 Liga MX aggregate table
- UNAM Pumas (Liga MX)
A storied Mexican club, Pumas UNAM boasts a proud history in both domestic and international competitions. Their high-tempo style and passionate fans would make for an electrifying matchup.
Key Players: César Huerta, Guillermo Martínez, José Caicedo
Qualifying Method: One of three next best clubs in 2023–24 Liga MX aggregate table
- Real Salt Lake City (MLS)
Another MLS side Forge has never faced, Real Salt Lake offers a blend of young talent and experienced leadership. Known for their high-altitude home advantage, they could provide an intriguing clash of styles.
Key Players: Diego Luna, Cristian Arango, Carlos Andrés Gómez
Qualifying Method: One of three next best clubs in the 2024 Supporters’ Shield standings
- Tigres UANL (Liga MX)
Arguably the most dominant Mexican side in recent years, Tigres bring an unmatched pedigree to the tournament. Facing stars like André-Pierre Gignac would be a massive test for Forge’s defence.
Key Players: André-Pierre Gignac, Fernando Gorriarán, Sebastián Córdova
Qualifying Method: 2023–24 Liga MX Apertura runners-up
- Vancouver Whitecaps (MLS)
The Whitecaps are Canada’s other representative in Pot A, offering a potential all-Canadian clash that would be eagerly anticipated by fans of both clubs. A matchup against Vancouver would be a great showcase for the growth of Canadian soccer and provide Forge with a unique opportunity to compete against familiar domestic rivals.
Key Players: Ryan Gauld, Ali Ahmed, Brian White
Qualifying Method: 2024 Canadian Championship winners
New Ground: Playing in the United States
Interestingly, despite its success in Concacaf competitions, Forge FC has yet to play a match on U.S. soil. A draw against any of the MLS teams—Inter Miami, LAFC, FC Cincinnati, or others—would mark their first-ever competitive game in the United States. It would also offer an exciting opportunity to showcase Canadian Premier League talent to a broader audience.
The Challenge Ahead
Forge FC has made incredible strides in recent years, cementing its status as a competitive force in Concacaf. While a match against any of these clubs presents significant challenges, Forge has consistently punched above their weight on the continental stage. Whether it’s a rematch with Chivas or Cruz Azul, a clash with Tigres or Monterrey, or even an all-Canadian showdown with Vancouver Whitecaps, the 2025 Champions Cup promises high drama and excitement for Forge fans.
As we await the draw, one thing is certain: Forge FC will represent Canadian soccer with pride and determination, no matter the opponent.