With the 2024 MLS regular season wrapped up, the playoffs have kicked off, setting the stage for a thrilling battle as teams chase the ultimate prize in US club football: the MLS Cup. The bracket is now set, and teams must navigate their paths through high-stakes matchups to reach glory. Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, comes into the playoffs with momentum after securing the Leagues Cup and clinching the Supporters’ Shield. However, in the unpredictable world of MLS, being the top seed in the Eastern Conference only guarantees a tough road ahead.
Inter Miami have broken the record for most points in an MLS season, grabbing 74 in this campaign! pic.twitter.com/Gqpnbb8Tdf
— 365Scores (@365Scores) October 20, 2024
Across both conferences, there are formidable contenders. Defending champions Columbus Crew are striving to become the first team in over a decade to win back-to-back titles, a feat last achieved by the LA Galaxy in 2011 and 2012. Meanwhile, the Galaxy, despite narrowly missing out on the Western Conference crown to LAFC on the final day of the season, remain a formidable force aiming to reclaim their status as champions for the first time since 2014.
As the MLS playoffs journey begins, fans can expect intense matches from the wild-card round to the final showdown in early December, with each team’s fate hinging on their performances in this high-pressure environment.
2024 MLS Playoffs: All you need to know
MLS Playoffs Bracket
The Top Contenders in the 2024 MLS Playoffs
FC Cincinnati: Regular Season Dominance – Can It Translate to Playoff Success?
FC Cincinnati enters the 2024 MLS playoffs with significant momentum, following a crucial 2-1 victory against the Philadelphia Union in their regular-season finale. This win not only ended their three-game losing streak but also secured their first-ever victory at Subaru Park, eliminating the Union from playoff contention. The victory also clinched Cincinnati’s qualification for the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup, a major achievement for the club.
Head coach Pat Noonan expressed his satisfaction with the result, emphasizing how important it was for the team to secure momentum heading into the playoffs. “You don’t want to go into the MLS playoffs having not won in four,” Noonan commented. “For the group to go into this very important week feeling the way they do is beneficial.” He also highlighted the team’s ambition to qualify for the Champions Cup as a critical objective that was achieved in the final match.
LAFC: Aiming for Redemption After Last Year’s Exit
Out West, LAFC once again proved their dominance by clinching the top spot in the Western Conference after a convincing 3-1 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes. The win, combined with rivals LA Galaxy’s 2-1 loss to Houston Dynamo, secured the Black and Gold the No. 1 seed and home-field advantage throughout the conference playoffs. As the top seed, LAFC aims to capitalize on this edge as they look to reach the MLS Cup for the third consecutive year.
Their postseason journey will begin at BMO Stadium, where they await the winner of the Wild Card match between Vancouver Whitecaps and Portland Timbers. The victor of that clash will face a daunting task in taking on an LAFC side determined to make a deep run. After falling short in the 2023 MLS Cup against Columbus Crew, where goals from Hernández and Yeboah sealed a 2-1 victory for the hosts, LAFC is hungry for redemption. The memory of that defeat is still fresh, and the Black and Gold are set on using their home advantage to avenge last season’s disappointment and push for the championship once again.
Dark Horses Who Could Upset the Favorites
Columbus Crew: The Attacking Juggernaut
The Columbus Crew, one of the most prolific offenses in the league, closed out their regular season in style with a thrilling 3-2 victory over the New York Red Bulls. This win not only guaranteed them second place in the Eastern Conference but also set up a rematch against the Red Bulls in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs.
Heading into Decision Day, Columbus had already locked in their position, while the Red Bulls were fighting for a chance to avoid the daunting task of facing the Crew. The only way for New York to leapfrog into sixth place was a win over Columbus, but the Crew’s early intensity, fueled by a goal just two minutes in from forward Aziel Jackson, dashed those hopes. Jackson’s strike, set up brilliantly by Cucho Hernández, highlighted the dynamic attacking prowess that Columbus has consistently showcased this season.
Hernández, a standout performer and MVP contender, has been the heart of Columbus’s offense, finishing the regular season with an impressive 19 goals and 14 assists. His ability to both score and create opportunities makes him a critical player as the Crew enter the MLS playoffs with aspirations of going all the way. With 72 goals scored this season, second only to Inter Miami, Columbus is banking on their high-octane offense to carry them deep into the postseason.
Houston Dynamo: Quiet Contenders
Houston Dynamo enters the 2024 MLS Playoffs as the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference, boasting a 15-10-9 (WLD) record and 54 points – both marking new milestones for the club. The Dynamo capped off their impressive regular season with a 2-1 home victory over the LA Galaxy on Decision Day, setting a new club record for total points in a single season.
The team also made history with their performances on the road, achieving eight away victories, surpassing the previous record of seven set back in 2007. This blend of home and away consistency showcases Houston’s growth and adaptability throughout the season.
The Dynamo now turn their focus to postseason play, with their playoff journey beginning on Monday, Oct. 28. They face a tough matchup against the Seattle Sounders FC at Lumen Field in Game 1 of the Round One Best-of-Three Series in the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs. With momentum and record-breaking form on their side, Houston aims to make a deep run and leave their mark on the tournament.
Key Players to Watch in the 2024 MLS Playoffs
Lionel Messi (Inter Miami): Can Messi Deliver in His First MLS Playoffs?
Lionel Messi’s first season with Inter Miami has been nothing short of transformative. Joining midway through the campaign, the Argentine legend quickly made his mark, leading the Herons to their first-ever Supporters’ Shield. On Decision Day, Messi delivered a hat trick and an assist in just 30 minutes against the New England Revolution, propelling Miami to a 6-2 victory and securing the MLS single-season points record with 74. This latest display earned him his sixth MLS Player of the Matchday honor this season, tying the record for most in a single season. Messi’s stats speak for themselves—20 goals and 16 assists in just 1,485 minutes—proving his incredible efficiency and impact even with limited playing time.
Inter Miami are the first MLS club to have two players score at least 20 goals each in a single season. pic.twitter.com/CSueQWbRNU
— 365Scores (@365Scores) October 21, 2024
Messi’s presence has not only elevated his teammates but reshaped the entire league narrative. Alongside Luis Suárez, who also netted 20 goals this season, Miami became the first team in MLS history to have two players score 20 or more goals in a single regular season.
Messi’s influence has helped lift Inter Miami from a struggling side that finished 14th in the Eastern Conference in 2023 to a dominant force breaking records in 2024. With home-field advantage secured throughout the MLS playoffs as the top seed, Miami has a genuine shot at MLS Cup glory. Messi’s pursuit of the MVP award is more than just a personal milestone; it symbolizes his commitment to making Inter Miami a powerhouse in the MLS.
Lucho Acosta (FC Cincinnati): The Engine of Cincinnati’s Attack
Much of FC Cincinnati’s success in 2024 can be attributed to the stellar performances of Lucho Acosta. The Argentine playmaker has been instrumental in Cincinnati’s attacking setup, leading the team with 14 goals and 16 assists during the regular season. His creative influence is evident from his 22 big chances created and an expected assists (xA) total of 13.25, both of which rank among the league’s best. Acosta’s ability to unlock defenses with precision passes and his knack for scoring both inside and outside the box (11 goals inside and 3 outside) have made him a central figure for the Eastern Conference’s No. 3 seed.
Acosta’s impact was on full display throughout the season as he helped Cincinnati achieve an 18-11-5 record. His presence was felt in crucial moments, including free kicks (converting 1 out of 12 attempts) and vital assists that set up key victories. With Acosta leading the charge, Cincinnati now looks to build on their regular-season success and make a deep playoff run.
I’ve made my choice for @MLS MVP: Lucho Acosta pic.twitter.com/sO388K96Yr
— Sacha Kljestan (@SachaKljestan) October 19, 2024
Denis Bouanga (LAFC): The X-Factor
Denis Bouanga has been a game-changer for LAFC in the 2024 season, emerging as one of the most dynamic attackers in MLS. In 32 appearances, Bouanga scored 20 goals and provided 9 assists, showcasing his ability to both finish chances and create opportunities for his teammates. His versatility and pace make him a constant threat in the final third, capable of breaking down defenses with individual brilliance or linking up with teammates like Carlos Vela.
As LAFC enters the MLS playoffs, Bouanga’s impact will be crucial. His knack for finding the back of the net and his creative contributions give LAFC an edge in tight matches where one moment of brilliance can make all the difference. With home-field advantage throughout the Western Conference MLS playoffs, LAFC will lean heavily on Bouanga’s form as they push for another MLS Cup appearance. His performances could be the X-factor that propels LAFC to postseason success.
Tactical Battles That Will Define the MLS Playoffs
Defensive Showdowns: Who Has the Strongest Backline?
In the high-pressure environment of the MLS playoffs, defense often becomes the deciding factor. Teams with solid backlines have the upper hand, as a single mistake can shift the momentum of a series. Charlotte FC and the Seattle Sounders are prime examples of defensive strength in their respective conferences. Charlotte conceded the fewest goals in the Eastern Conference this season, allowing just 37 goals, while Seattle led the West with only 35 goals conceded.
Both teams boast organized defensive units capable of shutting down even the most potent offenses. For Charlotte, their defensive consistency has been a cornerstone of their playoff qualification, while Seattle’s disciplined approach could be the key to making another deep postseason run. Expect both teams to rely on their sturdy defenses as they seek to grind out results when it matters most.
Midfield Control: The Teams That Will Win in the Center of the Park
While defense is critical, control of the midfield often determines which teams can dictate play and create scoring opportunities. Houston Dynamo’s Héctor Herrera and Columbus Crew’s Darlington Nagbe stand out as pivotal players in this regard. Herrera has been the engine for Houston, providing both defensive cover and creative outlets to transition quickly into attack.
His vision and experience make him a crucial figure as the Dynamo look to navigate their playoff journey. Meanwhile, Nagbe’s influence in the Columbus midfield has been instrumental in their offensive setup. His ability to retain possession and distribute effectively allows Columbus to dominate the tempo of matches. Both players’ performances will be essential in shaping their teams’ playoff campaigns, as midfield battles are often the deciding factor in tight, high-stakes matchups.
By Nicky Helfgott / @NickyHelfgott1 on Twitter (X)
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