The 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup returns as Guatemalan giants CSD Xelajú MC prepare to host one of Mexico’s most successful clubs, CF Monterrey. This Round 1 Xelajú vs Monterrey, 1st-leg matchup brings together two distinct footballing philosophies, promising a high-intensity battle in Guatemala City.
Match Details
- Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026
- Kick-off Time: 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
- Venue: Estadio Cementos Progreso, Guatemala City
- Tournament: CONCACAF Champions Cup – Round 1
Xelajú vs Monterrey Match Preview: The Giants vs The Underdogs
CF Monterrey, popularly known as Rayados, arrives in Guatemala with a formidable reputation. As multi-time winners of this competition, Monterrey’s squad is built for continental dominance. Led by their creative midfield and clinical finishers, they will look to control the tempo and secure a vital away goal advantage.
On the other side, Xelajú MC carries the hopes of Guatemala. Known for their disciplined defensive structure and passionate fan base, the “Superchivos” are experts at making life difficult for visiting teams.
Playing at the Estadio Cementos Progreso, Xelajú will rely on their physicality and quick transitions to catch the Monterrey defense off-guard.
Key Player Matchups to Watch
- Sergio Canales (Monterrey) vs. Juan Cardona (Xelajú): The midfield clash will be key, with Canales’ sharp vision going up against Cardona’s solid defensive positioning, potentially shaping the entire flow of the match.
- Lucas Ocampos (Monterrey) vs. José Calderón (Xelajú): Monterrey’s star winger will be testing Xelajú’s veteran goalkeeper, who has a history of big-game performances in international play.
Team News & Injury Updates
- CF Monterrey: Coach Martin Demichelis has confirmed a nearly full-strength squad, though they may rotate a few players ahead of their upcoming Liga MX fixture. Jesús Corona is a doubt due to a minor knock, but star signing Lucas Ocampos is fit to start.
- Xelajú MC: The hosts have no major suspension concerns. They are expected to field a compact 4-5-1 formation to neutralize Monterrey’s attacking threats
Xelajú vs Monterrey Predicted Starting XIs
Xelajú MC (4-5-1):
- Calderón (GK); González, Cardona, Ruiz, Arango; López, Mayén, Cuque, Vargas, Del Águila; Raudales.
CF Monterrey (4-2-3-1):
- Andrada (GK); Medina, Guzmán, Moreno, Arteaga; Rodríguez, Ambriz; Canales, Ocampos, Meza; Berterame.
Where to Watch: Live Streaming & TV Channels
For fans across the United States and Canada, the match will be broadcast live across several major sports networks.
| Region | TV Channel | Live Stream / App |
| United States | FS2 (Fox Sports 2) | Fox Sports App, FuboTV, Sling TV |
| Canada | OneSoccer | OneSoccer App, fuboTV Canada |
| Mexico | Fox Sports / TUDN | ViX, Fox Sports Play |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the match not being played in Quetzaltenango?
The match was moved to Guatemala City (Estadio Cementos Progreso) to meet CONCACAF’s specific stadium lighting and infrastructure standards for international broadcasts.
When is the second leg of this fixture?
The return leg will be played at the Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, Mexico, on February 11, 2026.
What is the significance of the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup?
This tournament is the premier club competition for North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, with the winner earning a spot in the FIFA Club World Cup.
