Copa Centroamericana 2026: Group Stage Calendar Announced

The 2026 Copa Centroamericana, Central America's premier regional club competition, has officially released its schedule following a draw in Miami on May 26. The tournament is set to kick off with the group stage on July 28 and will conclude with the grand final on December 6.

This edition marks a historic milestone for Guatemala, which will be represented by a record four teams: Municipal, Antigua GFC, Xelajú MC, and Deportivo Mixco. The group stage will feature 20 teams divided into four groups of five clubs each, playing five matchdays between July and August.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals, scheduled for September in a home-and-away format. The semifinals will follow in October, also contested over two legs. The final match will take place on December 2 and December 6, determining the new Central American champion.

Beyond the regional title, the Copa Centroamericana 2026 serves as a crucial pathway to the 2027 Concacaf Champions Cup. The tournament champion secures a direct spot in the Round of 16 of the Concacaf Champions Cup 2027. Additionally, the four semifinalists and the two winners of the Play-In matches will also earn berths in the prestigious continental club competition.

Defending champions Liga Deportiva Alajuelense of Costa Rica are expected to be among the favorites to lift the trophy once again.