What Is 2019 CONCACAF Champions League Finals

Overview

The 2019 CONCACAF Champions League Finals marked the culmination of the 11th edition of the premier club competition in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. The final featured an all-Mexican clash between two Liga MX powerhouses: Tigres UANL and C.F. Monterrey, making it the fifth consecutive final with Mexican teams facing off.

The two-leg final was tightly contested, with both teams showcasing elite-level tactics and defensive discipline. Monterrey ultimately claimed the title with a 2–1 aggregate victory, securing their fourth CONCACAF crown and a berth in the 2019 FIFA Club World Cup.

• First leg date: The initial match took place on April 24, 2019, ending in a 1–1 draw at Tigres' home ground, Estadio Universitario, in San Nicolás de los Garza.
• Second leg result: Monterrey won the decisive second leg 1–0 on May 1, 2019, at Estadio BBVA, thanks to a second-half goal by Rogelio Funes Mori.
• Aggregate score: Monterrey advanced with a 2–1 aggregate victory, claiming their fourth regional title in the club’s history.
• Historic rivalry: The final was a Clásico Regiomontano, the fierce local derby between the two Monterrey-based clubs, adding intense regional pride to the stakes.
• International qualification: As champions, Monterrey earned the right to represent CONCACAF at the 2019 FIFA Club World Cup in December, joining champions from other confederations.

How It Works

The CONCACAF Champions League follows a knockout format with home-and-away ties, culminating in a two-legged final. Teams earn qualification through domestic league or cup performance, primarily from Liga MX, MLS, and top clubs in Central America and the Caribbean.

• Qualification Path:16 teams enter the knockout stage, with Liga MX clubs receiving direct berths based on league position and cup results from the prior season.
• Tournament Format: The competition uses a single-elimination bracket with two-legged ties; away goals break ties, and extra time and penalties follow if needed.
• Final Structure: The final consists of two legs, one at each finalist’s home stadium, with the aggregate score determining the champion.
• Host Selection: The higher-seeded team hosts the second leg, which in 2019 was Monterrey due to their better performance in earlier rounds.
• Refereeing: CONCACAF appoints international referees; the 2019 final was overseen by Costa Rican official Michael Chacón in both legs.
• Prize Incentive: Winners receive a $2 million prize and automatic qualification to the FIFA Club World Cup, where they face continental champions from Europe, South America, and Asia.

Comparison at a Glance

Below is a side-by-side comparison of the two finalists in the 2019 CONCACAF Champions League Finals:

Despite Tigres' stronger domestic season and higher-scoring offense, Monterrey's consistency in continental play gave them an edge in the final. Their experience in high-pressure matches, particularly in past Champions League finals, played a crucial role in their success.

Why It Matters

The 2019 CONCACAF Champions League Finals had significant implications for club prestige, international representation, and regional football development. Winning the title not only brought Monterrey continental glory but also highlighted the dominance of Mexican clubs in the region.

• Regional Supremacy: Monterrey's win extended Mexico's streak to 14 consecutive titles, underscoring Liga MX's dominance over MLS and Central American leagues.
• Club World Cup Berth: As champions, Monterrey qualified for the 2019 FIFA Club World Cup, where they defeated Al-Hilal before losing to Liverpool in the semifinals.
• Financial Reward: The $2 million prize significantly boosted Monterrey's revenue, aiding in player acquisitions and infrastructure development.
• Player Recognition: Standout performers like Funes Mori and goalkeeper Marcelo Barovero gained increased visibility for national team selection and transfer opportunities.
• Derby Legacy: Winning a Clásico Regiomontano on such a stage intensified the rivalry and elevated fan engagement across northern Mexico.
• Youth Development: Success in continental competitions incentivizes academies and youth investment, promoting long-term growth in Mexican football.

Ultimately, the 2019 final was more than just a club competition—it symbolized the competitive depth and passion of CONCACAF football, while reinforcing Monterrey’s status as one of the region’s most successful clubs.