MLS Cup 2025 Playoffs: Complete Schedule and Latest Results for the Postseason Bracket

The 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs have officially begun, narrowing the field from 18 teams to 16. This postseason marks a crucial journey towards the championship, culminating in the MLS Cup on December 6, 2025. The playoff bracket has been established following a thrilling wild-card round, which concluded with key victories for the Chicago Fire and Portland Timbers.

Key Matchups and Results

The Chicago Fire triumphed over Orlando City with a score of 3-1, marking their first playoff appearance since 2017. This victory also saw them advance for the first time since reaching the Eastern Conference Final in 2009. Meanwhile, the Portland Timbers secured their playoff position by defeating Real Salt Lake, also with a score of 3-1.

First-Round Matchups

The first round of the playoffs will feature a best-of-three series format. The team with the better regular-season record enjoys home-field advantage. Here’s a look at the first-round matchups:

• Oct. 24: Inter Miami vs. Nashville SC at 8 p.m. ET
• Oct. 26:
  • Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire at 5:30 p.m. ET
  • Vancouver Whitecaps vs. FC Dallas at 7:30 p.m. ET
  • San Diego FC vs. Portland Timbers at 9:30 p.m. ET
• Oct. 27:
  • FC Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew at 6:45 p.m. ET
  • Minnesota United vs. Seattle Sounders at 9 p.m. ET
• Oct. 28: Charlotte FC vs. New York City FC at 6:45 p.m. ET
• Oct. 29: LAFC vs. Austin FC at 10:30 p.m. ET

Second Round Schedule

The second round features additional matches scheduled as follows:

• Nov. 1:
  • New York City FC vs. Charlotte FC at 3:30 p.m. ET
  • Chicago Fire vs. Philadelphia Union at 5:30 p.m. ET
  • Nashville SC vs. Inter Miami at 7:30 p.m. ET
  • FC Dallas vs. Vancouver Whitecaps at 9:30 p.m. ET
  • Portland Timbers vs. San Diego FC at 9:30 p.m. ET
• Nov. 2:
  • Columbus Crew vs. FC Cincinnati at 6:30 p.m. ET
  • Austin FC vs. LAFC at 8:30 p.m. ET
• Nov. 3: Seattle Sounders vs. Minnesota United at 10:30 p.m. ET

Third Game If Necessary

If a third game is required, it will be hosted by the team with the better seed. The schedule for potential third games is set for November 7-9, 2025.

Looking Ahead

The conference semifinals will take place between November 22 and 23, followed by the conference finals on November 29 and 30. The 2025 MLS Cup will be decided on December 6, starting at 2:30 p.m. ET.

This playoff process promises excitement as the teams vie for the championship title. With thrilling rematches and standout performances expected, all eyes will be on the MLS Cup journey ahead.