Reigning MLS champions Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union secured their spots in the semi-finals of the Leagues Cup on Saturday after intense quarter-final victories.

Columbus Crew edged past New York City FC in a 4-3 penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in regulation. New York took the lead just 14 seconds into the game when Alonso Martinez capitalized on a defensive error by Rudy Camacho. Despite missing early opportunities, Columbus equalized before halftime with a well-placed header by Cucho Hernandez, following a cross from Max Arfsten. With few chances in the second half, the game went to penalties, where Columbus goalkeeper Patrick Schulte made a crucial save, and DeJuan Jones converted the winning spot-kick.

Philadelphia Union also advanced through a penalty shootout, defeating Mexican side Mazatlan 4-3. The Union played the majority of the match with ten men after Tai Baribo was controversially sent off before halftime. However, they took the lead minutes later through a brilliant chip from Mikael Uhre. Mazatlan equalized in the second half with a header from Alonso Escoboza, but despite their advantage, they couldn't find a winner. Union goalkeeper Andre Blake was the hero in the shootout, making two vital saves to send his team into the semi-finals for the second consecutive season.

In other quarter-final action, Los Angeles FC secured a dominant 3-0 victory over the Seattle Sounders. Ryan Hollingshead opened the scoring, followed by a goal from veteran Kei Kamara. Denis Bouanga sealed the win early in the second half with a composed finish, assisted by French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. LAFC now awaits the winner of the final quarter-final between the Colorado Rapids and Mexico's Club America.

Columbus Crew will face Philadelphia Union in the semi-finals as both teams continue their quest for Leagues Cup glory.