2025 MLS Playoffs Round 1: Preview and Predictions
The 2025 MLS Cup playoffs commenced on October 24 with the Wild Card round, which saw the ninth seeds from both conferences eliminated. The Chicago Fire and Portland Timbers advanced to Round 1, where they face two of the top teams from the regular season: the Philadelphia Union and San Diego FC, respectively.
The playoffs proceed rapidly, with Inter Miami and Nashville SC set to begin their Round 1 match on Friday night.
This series will feature 16 clubs competing in a best-of-three format. Analysts Lizzy Becherano and Jon Arnold break down the key matchups.
Eastern Conference Matchups
3. Inter Miami vs. 6. Nashville SC
Game 1: Friday, 8 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 8 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Saturday, Nov. 8; time TBD
Key Player: All eyes will be on Lionel Messi as he leads Inter Miami against Nashville. Messi recently confirmed his three-year contract extension with the club. He enters the playoffs after netting a hat trick against Nashville in his final regular season game, securing the 2025 Golden Boot.
Despite missing a training session earlier this week, coach Javier Mascherano reassured that Messi is ready to play the full match if needed.
X-factor: Miami will rely on new signing Mateo Silvetti, who has just returned from an impressive performance at the U20 World Cup with Argentina. His impact on the bench could prove vital in a league where Miami has struggled with depth throughout the season.
Miami’s defensive frailties were evident in both regular season games against Nashville, allowing 55 goals, the second-most in the league. Nashville could exploit these weaknesses if they repeat previous successes.
Predictions for Inter Miami vs. Nashville SC
Becherano: “Inter Miami should advance in this series, given their improved fitness and determination to succeed. The return from injury for key players adds depth.”
Arnold: “Messi’s brilliance will lead Miami to a swift victory over Nashville as they push towards a fairytale conclusion for teammates Busquets and Alba.”
1. Philadelphia Union vs. 8. Chicago Fire
Game 1: Sunday, 5:30 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 5:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Saturday, Nov. 8; time TBD
Key Player: The Union’s strength lies in their defensive prowess, with finalists Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner for Defender of the Year leading the back line. The side has conceded only 35 goals this season.
Chicago aims to exploit Philadelphia’s vulnerabilities, with new coach Gregg Berhalter revitalizing the Fire’s potential, evident in their Wild Card win over Orlando City.
X-factor: The Union’s collective defense faces the Fire’s solid attacking unit, capable of scoring 68 goals this season without any superstar finishing. This matchup will focus on the battle between Chicago’s offense and Philadelphia’s strong backline.
Predictions for Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire
Becherano: “Despite a tight series, Chicago’s recent form may surprise. If they can penetrate Philly’s defense, they might clinch the upset.”
Arnold: “Philly’s disciplined defense should stifle the Fire. Expect Philadelphia to limit goal-scoring chances effectively, allowing them to pull through.”
Western Conference Matchups
2. Vancouver Whitecaps vs. 7. FC Dallas
Game 1: Sunday, 7:30 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Friday, Nov. 7; time TBD
Key Player: Thomas Müller is set to make his playoff debut for Vancouver after a stellar regular season, where he scored seven goals and provided three assists.
X-factor: Petar Musa returns from suspension for FC Dallas, where he scored 18 goals this season. His presence can significantly impact Dallas’s chances against Vancouver.
Tactical Note: FC Dallas’s defensive shift to a three-back formation has reinvigorated their late-season push. This tactical wrinkle could play a crucial role against Vancouver’s creative attacks.
Predictions for Vancouver Whitecaps vs. FC Dallas
Arnold: “Vancouver should advance based on their composition and attacking flair, though Dallas needs a stellar effort if they hope to upset.”
Becherano: “Vancouver’s resurgence under Sørensen shows they’ll be competitive in this matchup, capitalizing on their strong midfield.”
1. San Diego FC vs. 8. Portland Timbers
Game 1: Sunday, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Sunday, Nov. 9; time TBD
Key Player: Hirving Lozano is uncertain for the playoff series due to internal team issues; however, teammate Anders Dreyer has been a standout performer, finishing with impressive stats in his debut MLS season.
X-factor: For Portland, Felipe Mora scored twice in a pivotal Wild Card win, showing signs of returning to form and could be crucial against San Diego’s defense.
Tactical Angle: San Diego’s depth will be tested as they face a Timbers squad built on recent momentum after their Wild Card victory.
Predictions for San Diego FC vs. Portland Timbers
Arnold: “San Diego is too strong at this stage, even if Lozano is sidelined. The Timbers’ earlier win may be a boon, but they’ll need consistent performance to progress.”
Becherano: “San Diego is riding high and should effectively handle the Timbers, showcasing their impressive attacking capabilities.”
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