Vancouver FC’s road to continental competition began long before last night’s draw, which paired the Eagles with Mexican giant and reigning champion Cruz Azul in Round One of the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup. For a young club, the moment marks a historic milestone and the first opportunity to compete on the region’s biggest stage.
The Eagles earned their place through a heroic 2025 Canadian Championship run that carried them to a frenetic final against city rivals Vancouver Whitecaps FC. After finishing as runners-up, Vancouver FC’s qualification hinged on the Whitecaps’ path through MLS Cup and the Canadian Championship. Once their rivals secured their own berth, the final qualification spot officially opened, granting Vancouver FC its first entry into the tournament.
Tuesday’s draw, broadcast live from Miami, placed Vancouver FC in Pot 2, and destiny delivered one of the toughest possible matchups. The top-ranked team in the region was drawn against the 100th, setting the stage for a dramatic opening round. February will bring a historic moment to Langley as the Concacaf Champions Cup arrives in the Fraser Valley for the first time, offering fans across the region, including its strong Latin community, a rare chance to experience elite continental football during an important year for the sport in Canada.
The road ahead is daunting. Cruz Azul stand among the true giants of Mexican football, boasting nine Liga MX titles, four Copa MX trophies, and a record-setting seven Concacaf Champions Cup titles. Their most recent triumph came in 2025 with a commanding 5–0 win over Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the final at Estadio Olímpico Universitario in Mexico City, cementing their status as the region’s reigning champions.
With a trophy cabinet overflowing and one of the largest, most passionate fan bases in North America, Cruz Azul bring enormous pedigree into the matchup. For Vancouver FC, this encounter represents both a formidable challenge and a landmark opportunity, showcasing the Eagles and the Langley community on a continental stage for the very first time.