The 2020 CONCACAF Champions League had to be postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic, but football's governing body in North America has come up with a way to finish the competition taking the inspiration from what happened in the later stages of the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Europa League.
Speaking earlier today at a press conference, CONCACAF's president Victor Montagliani revealed when and how the final stages of the competition will take place. Furthermore, the Canadian exec revealed that Exploria Stadium will host the remaining games of the competition from December 15 to December 22.
"Exploria Stadium in Orlando will be a great venue for the last seven games in the competition. I'd like to thank all the staff working at the stadium so that CONCACAF can plan the final stages of the 2020 Champions League for fans and clubs to enjoy," Montagliani stated.
The venue will not be a stranger to such events, as it has previously hosted the Florida Cup, international friendlies for the USMNT, and the MLS All-Game. On that note, Orlando City SC and Orlando Pride Executive Director Alex Leitao admitted his delight to have the tournament being played at Exploria Stadium.
"We're honored to know that CONCACAF has chosen the city of Orlando and our incredible Exploria Stadium to host one of the most important club tournaments in the world of football. This year, the city has been the home for some of the most relevant sports events, and we are looking forward to watching these seven exciting games," Leitao said.
Three of the four quarter final ties saw the first leg taking place before the tournament was suspended. Those ties will have the return leg being played in Orlando, while the matchup between Cruz Azul and LAFC will be played as a single-match playoff. The remaining games will see Atlanta United trying to overcome a 3-0 loss against Club América, Mexico's Tigres UANL trying to defend their 1-0 advantage against New York City FC, and Olimpia trying to keep their slim 2-1 lead over Montreal Impact. Kick-off times will be revealed later this month.
All semi-final ties and the final match will be played as one-leg playoffs.
