In a significant twist ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup, Mexican club León has been officially excluded from the tournament after their appeal was rejected by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). As a result, Los Angeles FC (LAFC) will face Club América in a playoff match to determine who will fill the vacant spot in the prestigious competition. The playoff is scheduled to take place on May 31, with a potential financial incentive of nearly $10 million at stake for the winner. This unexpected turn of events has caused a stir in both the MLS and Liga MX, prompting discussions about ownership conflicts and the implications for Mexican football.