America Vs. Tigres: US Soccer Fans Rally Behind Underdog MLS Team
America Vs. Tigres: US Soccer Fans Rally Behind Underdog MLS Team...
American soccer fans are buzzing as Club América faces Tigres UANL in a high-stakes CONCACAF Champions Cup match tonight at 10 PM ET. The matchup is trending across the US after MLS side Real Salt Lake narrowly lost to América last week, fueling hopes for an underdog victory.
The rivalry between Mexico's Liga MX and Major League Soccer has intensified in recent years. Tonight's game at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City marks the first leg of the quarterfinal, with the return match scheduled for March 8 in Utah. US viewers can watch live on FS1 and TUDN.
Social media erupted after Tigres' controversial 1-0 win over Orlando City SC in the previous round. Many American fans now see América as the last barrier before a potential all-MLS semifinal. The US Soccer Federation tweeted support for underdog teams, amplifying interest.
Club América currently leads Liga MX while Tigres sits third, making this a clash of Mexican soccer titans with unexpected consequences for US clubs. The winner advances to face either New England Revolution or Alajuelense, keeping American hopes alive for a first CONCACAF Champions Cup title since 2000.
Viewership records are expected after last year's tournament drew 1.2 million US viewers for the León vs. LAFC final. Apple TV's MLS Season Pass has reported a 40% increase in subscriptions this week alone. Analysts attribute the surge to growing MLS competitiveness against Mexican clubs.
Fans in border states like Texas and California are particularly engaged, with watch parties organized from San Diego to McAllen. The match coincides with growing momentum for the 2026 World Cup, which the US will co-host with Mexico and Canada.
Tonight's outcome could shift perceptions of North American soccer's balance of power. With two MLS teams still in contention, American supporters see an opportunity to prove their league's rising stature against Mexico's dominant clubs.
