What’s at Stake in the MLS Playoffs?

The weekend is finally here, and it’s evident that there are quite a few intriguing things to keep in mind. Whilst some people will be looking to use BuffBuff to buy FC26 and other video game in-game currency such as PUBG Mobile UC, others will be looking to go outside and have fun. Some will be looking to top up FC points, whilst others will have their eyes glued to the television for America football, or basketball, or a different sport.

However, if you’re an American soccer fan, there’s a good chance that you already have your plans sorted: the MLS Cup playoffs. Charlotte FC will kick off the action on Friday as they host 2021 champions New York City FC in the do-or-die Game Three of the first round. Unlike Philadelphia Union, LAFC and Vancouver Whitecaps, who have confirmed their spots in the Conference Semifinals, there are quite a few teams like Charlotte and New York that will need to grind out the victory in the third match.

Saturday will see Minnesota United host Seattle Sounders at Allianz Field; whereas Minnesota have not won a single trophy in their existence, Seattle have won every single trophy available to MLS teams. It will also see an enticing showdown between Ohio rivals FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew, with the hosts looking to bounce back after a 4-0 demolition in Columbus.

To cap off the Saturday night action, Inter Miami will host Nashville SC. Whereas Nashville recently won their first-ever trophy after beating Austin in the U.S. Open Cup Final, Miami are looking to make it three straight trophy-filled seasons. They won the Leagues Cup in 2023 and the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, and in order to end the season with silverware, they will need to win the MLS Cup. First, though, they’ll be looking to make it to the Conference Semifinals for the first time.

Sunday night, meanwhile, will see a fascinating showdown in Southern California. After finishing atop the Western Conference in their first-ever season, San Diego FC edged Portland Timbers 2-1 in their first-ever playoff match. And after erasing an early deficit and scoring on either side of halftime, San Diego looked set for a comfortable win. Instead, Gague Guerra equalized at the final second to force a penalty shootout.

After three successful penalty kicks, the next four spot-kicks failed to find the back of the net. Kristoffer Velde would make no mistake from the spot to make it 2-2, whilst Jeppe Tverskov’s shot failed to hit the target. And to seal the comeback win, Antony Alves tucked home the final penalty to set up a Game 3 in San Diego.

Stay tuned for a jam-packed weekend of MLS.