Reasons Every MLS Playoff Team Has a Chance (or Doesn’t) to Win the Cup

Basio badr

ago 16 hours

As the 2025 MLS playoffs unfold, every team brings with it a mixture of hope and scrutiny. Following a shocking upset where Atlanta United eliminated Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami CF, the unpredictable nature of the league is evident. Each playoff contender possesses reasons to believe in their potential for success, but also faces significant challenges on their path to the MLS Cup.

Reasons Every MLS Playoff Team Has a Chance (or Doesn’t) to Win the Cup

In an environment marked by competitiveness, every team in the postseason must consider both their strengths and weaknesses.

Austin FC

Strength: They have a robust defense, finishing 10th in the league for non-penalty expected goals allowed.
Weakness: The squad is unbalanced, relying heavily on young playmaker Owen Wolff who may not be ready for the pressure.

Charlotte FC

Strength: Elite goalkeeper Kristijan Kahlina, who saved eight goals above expected.
Weakness: The team depends too much on Kahlina; their attack lacks depth and firepower.

Chicago Fire

Strength: A balanced team has emerged with improved defense since changing tactics.
Weakness: They face a tough playoff picture following a first-round loss and injuries to key players.

FC Cincinnati

Strength: An impressive roster filled with talent, including Evander and Kévin Denkey.
Weakness: Statistical underperformance raises concerns over their long-term viability in the playoffs.

Columbus Crew

Strength: Coach Wilfried Nancy has proven postseason capability, having previously won the Cup.
Weakness: A decline in defensive performance highlights vulnerabilities compared to their championship-winning season.

Dallas FC

Strength: They’ve seen a turnaround in form after moving on from Lucho Acosta.
Weakness: The team still lacks crucial pieces for a deeper playoff run, as shown in their first-round loss.

LAFC

Strength: The attacking duo of Son Heung-Min and Denis Bouanga has been prolific.
Weakness: Struggles against compact defenses could hinder their championship aspirations.

Inter Miami CF

Strength: At their peak, they have unmatched offensive potential led by Lionel Messi.
Weakness: Defensive frailties and age raise serious concerns about their chances for success.

Minnesota United

Strength: A strong set-piece strategy and goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair’s stellar form.
Weakness: The loss of key player Tani Oluwaseyi has hurt their offensive consistency.

Nashville SC

Strength: Confidence from a recent U.S. Open Cup victory enhances their playoff mindset.
Weakness: An unconvincing record against top opponents presents a concerning trend.

New York City FC

Strength: Possession-heavy play dominates matches, leading to a solid defensive record.
Weakness: Over-reliance on top scorer Alonso Martínez could be a downfall if he is contained.

Philadelphia Union

Strength: A return to an aggressive style aligns with their past successes.
Weakness: Injury to a key playmaker in Quinn Sullivan limits their offensive threat.

Portland Timbers

Strength: Kristoffer Velde’s summer signing has injected energy into the squad.
Weakness: Continued struggles from winter signing David Da Costa could hinder their ambitions.

San Diego FC

Strength: Their playing style mirrors that of past Cup winners, emphasizing ball control.
Weakness: Opponents have adapted their strategies, exposing vulnerabilities in San Diego’s defense.

Seattle Sounders

Strength: A deep squad allows for adaptability amid a grueling schedule.
Weakness: Fatigue from the increased number of games could affect their performance.

Vancouver Whitecaps

Strength: Achieving historic success this season suggests strong potential in the playoffs.
Weakness: Key injuries in the squad could severely impact their chances to advance.

In conclusion, the road to the MLS Cup is fraught with challenges and opportunities. Every playoff team has distinct strengths, but their weaknesses could ultimately determine their fate. As the tournament progresses, all eyes will be on how these dynamics unfold on the pitch.