The Major League Soccer (MLS) group stage is coming to a close, and with it, the battle for playoff spots. The MLS regular season is divided into two halves, each consisting of 17 games. After the first half, the top six teams in each conference automatically qualify for the playoffs, while the remaining two teams from each conference will face off in a play-in game to determine who gets the last spot in the playoffs.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the current standings and analyze each team’s chances of making it to the playoffs. We’ll also examine some case studies and personal experiences to help you understand how the group stage works and what factors can influence a team’s success.
- Eastern Conference
The Eastern Conference is currently led by New York City FC (NYCFC) with 39 points, followed closely by Chicago Fire FC with 36 points. As of now, both teams are likely to qualify for the playoffs, but it’s not a sure thing yet. Here are some key factors that could impact their chances:
a. Form
Both NYCFC and Chicago Fire have been performing well so far this season. However, the form of a team can be unpredictable, especially towards the end of the season when fatigue sets in. It’s important to keep an eye on how each team performs over the next few weeks to see if they can maintain their momentum.
b. Injuries
Injuries can have a significant impact on a team’s performance. Both NYCFC and Chicago Fire have had their fair share of injuries this season, but it’s important to note that some injuries might be more debilitating than others. It’s crucial to monitor the status of key players for both teams to see how they will perform in the remaining games.
c. Schedule
The schedule can also play a role in determining which teams make it to the playoffs. The Eastern Conference has some challenging matches coming up, and both NYCFC and Chicago Fire have tough opponents to face. It’s essential to pay attention to how each team performs against their remaining opponents to see if they can hold on to their positions.
- Western Conference
The Western Conference is currently led by LA Galaxy with 45 points, followed by Colorado Rapids with 40 points. However, both teams still have a chance to qualify for the playoffs. Here are some key factors that could impact their chances:
a. Form
Both LA Galaxy and Colorado Rapids have been playing well so far this season. However, the form of a team can be unpredictable, especially towards the end of the season when fatigue sets in. It’s important to keep an eye on how each team performs over the next few weeks to see if they can maintain their momentum.
b. Injuries
Injuries can have a significant impact on a team’s performance. Both LA Galaxy and Colorado Rapids have had their fair share of injuries this season, but it’s important to note that some injuries might be more debilitating than others. It’s crucial to monitor the status of key players for both teams to see how they will perform in the remaining games.
c. Schedule
The schedule can also play a role in determining which teams make it to the playoffs. The Western Conference has some challenging matches coming up, and both LA Galaxy and Colorado Rapids have tough opponents to face. It’s essential to pay attention to how each team performs against their remaining opponents to see if they can hold on to their positions.
- Play-In Game
The last two teams in each conference will face off in a play-in game to determine who gets the last spot in the playoffs. The play-in game is a one-off match, and the winner advances to the knockout stage of the playoffs, while the loser is eliminated from the competition.