MLS Playoffs Set for High-Stakes Finals as Final Four Battle Begins

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — The 2025 MLS Cup playoffs have reached an exciting stage as teams battle for the championship title. After a short break for the FIFA international window, the playoffs resumed on November 22, with four teams remaining in the race for glory.

In the Eastern Conference final, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami will face New York City FC, while the Western Conference showdown features top seeds San Diego FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps. For all teams except NYCFC, this marks their first appearance at this level of the MLS playoffs.

The conference semifinals provided thrilling matches, including a dramatic encounter where Son Heung-min‘s late equalizer helped the Vancouver Whitecaps advance past LAFC after a penalty shootout. Meanwhile, Messi showcased his skills by scoring a goal and assisting three in Inter Miami’s comfortable 4-0 victory over FC Cincinnati.

Despite missing their star striker Alonso Martínez due to injury, NYCFC managed to defeat the Philadelphia Union 1-0, with veteran Maxi Moralez scoring the crucial goal. The final semis saw San Diego FC narrowly beat Minnesota United 1-0, with Anders Dreyer scoring the game-winner.

This year’s playoff format is single elimination, leading to the finals which will take place on December 6. The team with the best regular-season record hosts the championship game, and if Inter Miami progresses, they will host due to their points advantage.

As the league’s playoff intensity builds, the stage is set for memorable matches. The Eastern Conference final is scheduled for November 29 at 6 p.m. ET, followed by the Western Conference final later that evening at 9 p.m. ET.