The Leagues Cup 2024 kick-off is scheduled for Friday, heralding two weeks of intense matchups between MLS and Liga MX teams. The fierce rivalry between the two leagues was evident last year, promising high stakes and intense competition as teams vie for glory and prestigious spots in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup. Here’s a breakdown of the teams in tiers as we anticipate an exciting tournament:

**Tier 1: The Favorites**
- Inter Miami CF: Defending champs with strengthened squad
- Columbus Crew: MLS Cup winners eyeing more silverware
- Cruz Azul: Dominated Apertura with revamped lineup
- Club América: Reigning Bicampeones with talent and depth
- Club Tigres: Seasoned team known for winning
- Los Angeles Football Club: Blending patience and transition

**Tier 2: The Contenders**
- FC Cincinnati: Looking to integrate new defenders
- Toluca FC: Strong start in Apertura with key reinforcements
- Houston Dynamo FC: Enhanced attacking options for a competitive edge
- Pumas: Balanced team eyeing continued success
- Real Salt Lake: Surprising season with new tactics
- LA Galaxy: Strong squad under Greg Vanney
- Club Pachuca: Respected organization facing lineup changes
- Seattle Sounders FC: Experienced team aiming for consistency
- Chivas de Guadalajara: Sturdy defense with room for improvement
- Charlotte FC: Defensive strength with potential playmaker addition

**Tier 3: The Pack of Minimal Plausibility**
- Orlando City: Improved form with key players in good shape
- New York Red Bulls: Consistent defensive unit lacking a match-winner
- Portland Timbers: Revitalized attack and tactical adaptations
- New York City FC: Dynamic potential with critical player additions
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC: Energetic team seeking elite firepower
- Colorado Rapids: Exciting playstyle with attacking prowess
- Atlas FC: Solid team but facing tougher opponents
- FC Dallas: Offensive focus with notable signings

**Tier 4: I'm Working on Bettering Myself at the Moment**
- Club Necaxa: Young squad striving for success
- Philadelphia Union: Struggling with inconsistent form
- Toronto FC: Suffering from injuries and underperformance
- Atlanta United: Rebuilding phase with key departures
- Minnesota United: Evolving tactics and lineup changes
- Club Santos Laguna: Slow start impacting goals and defense
- Club Puebla: Seeking improvement with young squad
- Club León: Rebuilding phase after significant player exits
- CF Montréal: Adjusting to new strategies under interim coach
- FC Juárez: Challenged by strong opponents and limited squad

**Tier 5: The Quakes & Queretaro**
- San Jose Earthquakes and Queretaro FC facing tough seasons

The division of teams into tiers sets the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating Leagues Cup 2024, combining fierce competition, tactical battles, and exciting matchups between the best teams from MLS and Liga MX. The tournament is set to provide fans with plenty of thrilling moments and surprises as teams compete for the ultimate glory and recognition.