Decision Day Ahead: MLS Playoff Scenarios Intensify

PHILADELPHIA, Pa. — The 2025 MLS regular season concludes this Saturday, with teams vying for crucial playoff positions and individual honors. Philadelphia Union have already claimed the Supporters’ Shield, but the rest of the playoff scenarios are still wide open.

As of now, FC Dallas (41 points) and Real Salt Lake (40 points) hold the final playoff spots in the Western Conference. Right behind them are the Colorado Rapids (40 points) and San Jose Earthquakes (38 points), who are chasing desperately for a postseason berth. With Dallas facing the first-place Vancouver Whitecaps, and Colorado hosting the in-form LAFC, the matches promise to be challenging.

FC Dallas is without star forward Petar Musa and Logan Farrington, both suspended following a controversial red card. Meanwhile, San Jose hosts Austin FC, and RSL faces St. Louis, two matchups that may seem more favorable for those teams.

On the other hand, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami continue to pursue playoff positioning while also eyeing a second consecutive MVP award. Messi leads the league with 44 goal contributions, including 26 goals and 18 assists. He is chasing history, as winning back-to-back MVPs would make him the first player to achieve this feat.

In the Eastern Conference, FC Cincinnati sit ahead of Miami, and a Cincinnati win could complicate Miami’s postseason chances. The playoffs are not just about seeding, but also about home-field advantage, which is valuable in the best-of-three rounds.

As decision day looms, teams across the league look to solidify their playoff standings while also contending with the impending retirements of legends like Atlanta United’s Brad Guzan, who has been a mainstay for the club since their inception in 2017.

This Saturday promises excitement and uncertainty, ensuring that every match carries significant implications for the playoffs ahead.