Football fans can rejoice as Major League Soccer (MLS) is back in action following the November international break. After a 13-day lull to allow for the FIFA window, teams promptly return to the postseason, much to the relief of players and supporters alike.
The absence felt even longer for the eight teams competing, where FC Cincinnati, Inter Miami CF, Philadelphia Union, San Diego FC, and Vancouver Whitecaps saw a 15-day break, while Minnesota United FC and New York City FC experienced 16 days off. LAFC, however, has been inactive for 20 days since their last competitive match.
To gear up for the Eastern Conference semifinals, ESPN rallied Lizzy Becherano and Jon Arnold, along with other contributors, to reflect on how the teams reached this stage and to share their predictions for who will advance to the next round.
Eastern Conference
2. FC Cincinnati vs. 3. Inter Miami
Sunday, 5 p.m. ET
Key Player: Lionel Messi remains the centerpiece in every encounter for Inter Miami. Coming off a remarkable regular season in which he clinched the Golden Boot, Messi helped his team reach the conference semifinals for the first time by scoring five goals along with one assist in their opening series against Nashville SC.
Messi’s presence has prompted teams to adjust their strategies to contain him, yet he excels at creating opportunities for his teammates when marking tight. Cincinnati previously triumphed over Miami with a convincing 3-0 victory back in July, but stopping Messi in a playoff setting will be a daunting task.
Impact Players: While Miami has Messi, Cincinnati counters with a formidable attacking trio of Evander, Brenner, and Kévin Denkey. The three of them have alternated as leading scorers throughout the season, with Evander making a significant impact since joining from the Portland Timbers, achieving 18 goals and 15 assists. Denkey has also netted 15 goals, while Brenner contributed four goals in just six matches post his transfer from Udinese.
Cincinnati may lack a single standout star akin to Messi, but their cohesive attack poses a legitimate threat to Miami.
Strategic Note: The season has seen Miami struggle against Cincinnati, having lost 3-0 earlier in the campaign and managing only a draw later on. Despite Messi and Jordi Alba serving suspensions during a previous matchup, Miami was at full strength when facing Cincinnati in the latter contest. Cincinnati’s head coach Pat Noonan has strategically exploited opposing defenses to maximize Evander’s scoring chances. Notably, they achieved their 3-0 win without the contributions of Brenner and Denkey.
Predictions
Experts are split on this matchup, but most favor Inter Miami thanks to their rising form and superior star power. However, several analysts believe Cincinnati’s determination and tactical acumen could lead them to a tight victory.
1. Philadelphia Union vs. 5. New York City FC
Sunday, 7:45 p.m. ET
Key Player: While individual spotlight often falls on attackers, the Philadelphia Union’s defense, anchored by Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner, has been a fortress. They allowed only 35 goals during the regular season and finished atop the league table, securing the Supporters’ Shield.
Though it’s crucial for many players to shine, the Union’s robust defense can dictate the outcome of matches.
Impact Player: Forward Tai Baribo has emerged as a pivotal player in the 2025 season, contributing 16 goals and three assists—the most he has produced in a single season. Baribo’s recent performance against the Chicago Fire saw him score twice, displaying his vital role in the squad.
Strategic Note: New York City FC will be without key forward Alonso Martínez, sidelined due to a knee injury sustained during international duty with Costa Rica. His absence is a considerable loss for a team that relied on his 17-goal output during the regular season. Additionally, midfielder Andrés Perea will likely miss out due to injury, compelling head coach Pascal Jansen to rethink his game plan.
Predictions
Most analysts lean towards Philadelphia’s favor given their strong defensive capabilities and the absence of Martínez for NYCFC, which could tilt the match in the Union’s direction.
Western Conference
2. Vancouver Whitecaps vs. 3. LAFC
Saturday, 9:30 p.m. ET
Key Players: This matchup boasts an array of stars, with LAFC’s Son and Bouanga expected to be impactful, particularly in transition.
Predictions
The competition between Vancouver and LAFC is expected to be fiercely contested, though many predict LAFC may pull ahead thanks to their more explosive attack.
1. San Diego FC vs. 4. Minnesota United
Monday, 10 p.m. ET
Key Player: Minnesota’s goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair has proven instrumental, guiding his team through penalty shootouts during the playoffs and earning recognition as the league’s Goalkeeper of the Year.
Impact Player: The availability of San Diego’s star offensive players remains a concern, as Hirving Lozano’s hamstring issue and Anders Dreyer’s illness could impact the team’s performance. However, Amahl Pellegrino has emerged as a crucial player, performing admirably in previous matches against Portland.
Strategic Note: Minnesota’s ability to apply pressure will challenge San Diego’s defensive line, which has exhibited occasional vulnerabilities. Both teams will need to capitalize on the mistakes of their opponents for a chance to advance.
Predictions
The outcome remains uncertain due to injury concerns for San Diego. While they have shown resilience, Minnesota’s experience could provide them the edge in this critical match.
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