mls-en : Leagues Cup Boycott: Supporters' Groups Protest Tournament
Icaro
Boycotts have been announced by some of Major League Soccer's most passionate fans for the upcoming 2024 Leagues Cup matches. The decision to protest the tournament has stirred discussion among supporters' groups across the league. While some choose to stand against the competition, others remain in support, leading to a divided stance within MLS fandom.
The move to boycott the Leagues Cup stems from the discontent expressed by fans towards MLS's departure from the historic US Open Cup last December. The decision by the league to participate in the Leagues Cup, while reducing involvement in the Open Cup, has caused a backlash among fans who value the heritage and tradition of the latter tournament.
Several supporters' groups, including those from Austin FC, Philadelphia Union, Minnesota United, Columbus Crew, and Orlando City SC, have officially declared their intention to boycott the Leagues Cup matches. Their actions range from refraining from organizing game-day support to planning on staging demonstrations during the games.
On the contrary, some supporters' groups, notably those from the Columbus Crew and Houston Dynamo, have expressed their solidarity with their teams during the Leagues Cup. The differing perspectives among the fans highlight the ongoing debate regarding MLS's priorities and decisions surrounding tournament participation.
The heated discussion also brought comparisons to the Canadian Championship, where Canadian MLS teams successfully managed to balance participation in both tournaments. The format differences between these competitions have sparked conversations among fans regarding the complexities of scheduling and league priorities.
As the Leagues Cup kick-off approaches, the divisions within MLS supporter communities come to light, showcasing the passion and dedication that fans hold for their clubs and the tournaments they compete in. The ongoing dialogue surrounding the boycott reflects the deep-rooted connection between fans and the traditions that define soccer in North America.
Stay tuned for more updates on the evolving stance of MLS supporter groups regarding the Leagues Cup boycott.
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