A Comprehensive Guide To The Mls Postseason

The Unraveled 2023 MLS Playoff Format

A Comprehensive Guide to the MLS Postseason

Introduction

As the 2023 Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season draws to a close, the race for the playoffs intensifies. With just seven games remaining, the format of the postseason competition remains a topic of discussion among fans and analysts alike. This blog post will provide an in-depth explanation of the 2023 MLS Playoffs format, including key dates, eligibility criteria, and the structure of the knockout rounds.

Decision Day: The Culmination of the Regular Season

The final matchday of the MLS regular season is known as Decision Day, scheduled for October 21, 2023. On this day, all 28 MLS clubs will play their final game simultaneously, with the results determining the final standings and playoff seedings.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the playoffs, teams must finish in the top seven in their respective conference (Eastern or Western). Each conference will send seven teams to the postseason, resulting in a total of 14 playoff teams.

Knockout Rounds Structure

The MLS Playoffs will consist of three knockout rounds:

1. First Round (Single Elimination): The top three teams from each conference will earn a bye to the first round. The remaining four teams in each conference will compete in single-elimination matches to determine the two teams that advance to the Conference Semifinals.
2. Conference Semifinals (Two-Legged Ties): The six teams that advance from the first round will be paired into three two-legged ties, with the winners advancing to the Conference Finals.
3. Conference Finals (Two-Legged Ties): The two teams remaining in each conference will compete in two-legged ties to determine the Eastern and Western Conference champions. The conference champions will advance to MLS Cup.

MLS Cup

The MLS Cup is the championship game of Major League Soccer, played between the Eastern and Western Conference champions. The 2023 MLS Cup will be held on November 5, 2023, at a venue to be determined.

Conclusion

The 2023 MLS Playoffs format presents an exciting and challenging postseason for the league's top teams. With every game carrying significant weight, Decision Day and the knockout rounds promise high-stakes matches and intense competition. Fans can expect thrilling action and unpredictable outcomes as the league crowns its 2023 champion.