Whitecaps Aim to Make History in Decisive Clash With Pumas

Vancouver Whitecaps FC are one step away from making history in the Concacaf Champions Cup. According to the club’s official site, the Caps travel to Mexico City on Wednesday to face Pumas UNAM in the decisive second leg of their quarterfinal tie, with a place in the semifinals on the line.

Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg at BC Place, Vancouver must score in Mexico to advance. A 0-0 result would see Pumas go through on away goals, while a win or any draw of 2-2 or higher sends the Whitecaps into the final four. If the match ends 1-1 again, it will be decided in extra time and potentially penalties. The winner will meet either LAFC or Inter Miami in the semifinals.

The Whitecaps enter the clash in strong form, topping the MLS Supporters’ Shield standings after a 2-0 victory over Colorado Rapids. Goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka earned his league-leading fourth clean sheet, while Emmanuel Sabbi scored his first for the club. Brian White also found the net, extending his record for most game-winning goals in MLS regular season play for Vancouver.

Under head coach Jesper Sørensen, the Whitecaps have seen 12 different players score this season, underlining their collective strength. After their midweek trip, the team returns to BC Place to host Austin FC. The Texas club is on a four-game unbeaten run but has managed just five goals in seven matches. Vancouver hold a 5W-1L-2D record against them since 2021.