February 18 – History will be written in Cartago as CS Cartaginés face Canadian opposition for the first time in the competition.
Champions in 1994, the Costa Ricans are beginning what they hope will be another deep run – and their first-ever two-legged series against a North American club.
But they have a very tough challenge in seasoned Champions Cup campaigners Vancouver Whitecaps FC, who had a spectacular run to the final last season before being overwhelmed by Cruz Azul. The Whitecaps bring continental know-how and a balanced record against Central American sides, though recent trips south have been uncomfortable.
Cartaginés’ pedigree at home and Vancouver’s ability to manage hostile environments sets this up as one of the round’s most intriguing tactical battles.
Johan Venegas is Cartaginés’ top scorer with Marcos Ureña and Everardo Rubio, also part of the attacking line-up. Bernald Alfaro and Cristopher Núñez boss their midfield but the likelihood is that they will need a Herculeanperformance by goalkeeper Kevin Briceño. It wouldn’t be his first.
They line-up against some of the world’s footballing royalty. Under head coach Jesper Sørensen they won a fourth straight Canadian Championship in 2025, and finished second on goal difference in the MLS Western Conference.
They also attracted global attention by signing Germany and Bayern Munich legend Thomas Muller in August, who provided an immediate boost.
In Sebastian Berhalter they have one of 2025’s breakthrough MLS stars, a seasoned striker in Brian White who found renewed goalscoring form in 2025, and MLS standout defender Tristan Blackmon, all of whom are battling for places in the US team for the World Cup.
Great things are expected of the Whitecaps in 2026. Cartaginés will have to do great things to put a dent in that expectation.
CS Cartaginés (CRC) v Vancouver Whitecaps FC (CAN)
Round One, First Leg – Wednesday, Estadio Fello Meza, Cartago