How do the MLS playoffs work?

The MLS Cup Playoffs determine the league champion through a single-elimination tournament. The top 9 teams from each conference qualify, with the top seed in each conference receiving a first-round bye. Matches are single games (not two-legged ties), with higher seeds hosting through the conference finals.

The playoff bracket is set based on regular-season points. Wild Card matches (8 vs 9 seeds) kick off the playoffs, followed by Round One, Conference Semifinals, and Conference Finals. The two conference champions meet in the MLS Cup Final, which is hosted by the team with the better regular-season record.