Sporting KC advances to Leagues Cup Round of 32 with win over Chivas Guadalajara.Johnny Russell scores decisive first-half goal to seal crucial victory; Sporting to host Mexican side Toluca on Friday in Round of 32

Courtesy: Sporting KC Communications

Video: Carlos Chicas

(July 31, 2023) — Sporting Kansas City punched a ticket to the Leagues Cup 2023 knockout stage on Monday by claiming a convincing 1-0 win over Liga MX powerhouse Chivas Guadalajara at sold-out Children’s Mercy Park.

Captain Johnny Russell was the difference maker, hammering home a ruthless strike in the 27th minute that cemented victory and, more importantly, sealed a second-place finish in Central Region Group 3 that kept Kansas City’s title hunt alive in Leagues Cup.

The result sets up a mouthwatering Round of 32 clash between Sporting and Central Region Group 4 winner Deportivo Toluca FC on Friday night at Children’s Mercy Park. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. CT with live coverage on Apple TV and tickets available at SeatGeek.com beginning Tuesday at 10 a.m. CT.