MLS Cup Playoff Power…

It’s Monday, marking the conclusion of the latest MLS season, and that means it’s time for ESPN’s Power Rankings.

Which teams are poised for success as they head into the postseason? Who could face an early exit? Our analysts have analyzed the events of Decision Day to rank this week’s playoff contenders. Let’s take a closer look.

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The Union have a couple of challenges to overcome. They concluded the season with a 2-0 defeat to Charlotte, and historically, only two Supporters’ Shield winners in the last ten years have also claimed the MLS Cup. However, Philadelphia amassed the highest points total this year and possesses a strong defense paired with an experienced goalkeeper — traits that have historically led teams to titles.

Betting against Lionel Messi is risky. The Argentine star ended an MVP season with a hat trick and an assist during a 5-2 victory over Nashville, the same team Miami faces in the first round. While there are defensive concerns, the offensive talents of Messi and Luis Suárez could mitigate those issues.

The Whitecaps stumbled on Decision Day, losing 2-1 to Dallas, which prevented them from securing the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference. A red card to defender Mathías Laborda played a pivotal role in that game. Now, they are set to face Dallas again in a best-of-three series, which will allow them to showcase their strengths from the season.

What a way to wrap up a season! San Diego secured the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference with an impressive 4-0 win over Portland, even without Hirving “Chucky” Lozano. Anders Dreyer led with two goals and an assist, complemented by Amahl Pellegrino‘s brace. Now, they’re preparing for their first-round matchup.

LAFC’s drama on Decision Day was lessened following Messi’s explosive hat trick, making Denis Bouanga‘s Golden Boot ambitions seem out of reach. Nonetheless, LAFC illustrated the chemistry between Bouanga and summer addition Son Heung-Min in a 2-2 tie against Colorado. As they prepare for their first-round contest against Austin, a team that previously defeated them, manager Steve Cherundolo will be seeking to secure another title.

FCC heads into the playoffs with momentum after a 3-0 victory over Montreal, marking their fifth consecutive match without a loss. Key offensive contributors Evander and Brenner both found the net, entering the postseason in fine form. Additionally, they secured two clean sheets to end the season, while Matt Miazga is nearing a return.

The Sounders recorded a 2-1 victory over NYCFC — their third consecutive win — despite losing Pedro de la Vega to a knee injury, raising questions about their designated players’ availability for the playoffs. However, Seattle’s depth and Brian Schmetzer’s statement that “nobody wants to play us in the playoffs” resonate well.

Looking past a meaningless Decision Day loss to the Galaxy (2-1), Minnesota’s overall season indicates a well-defined identity and a robust defense, highlighted by one of the league’s top goalkeepers, Dayne St. Clair. They are expected to be a challenging opponent in the upcoming first-round matchup against Seattle, which should be a treat for neutral fans.

Charlotte capped Decision Day with a 2-0 victory over Supporters’ Shield winners Philadelphia, clinching home-field advantage for the playoffs. However, Wilfried Zaha was sent off in the concluding moments for a frustration foul, leaving the team to navigate the playoffs without him, though Charlotte has been strong at home.

Nashville clinched its first major trophy with the U.S. Open Cup win, a bright moment in an otherwise fading league campaign, as they experienced a seventh loss in ten matches following a 5-2 defeat to Inter Miami on Decision Day. They’ll need to regain their early-season form when facing Miami once again in the playoffs.

NYCFC concluded the regular season on a low note, losing three of their last four matches, including a 2-1 defeat at home to Seattle. Forward Alonso Martínez has been a bright spot for club and nation, and Nicolás Fernández netted his third goal since joining, inspiring hope as they look to face Charlotte in the playoffs.

Although the Crew’s season didn’t meet their high expectations, they ended on a positive note, defeating the Red Bulls 3-1 and avoiding the wild-card round. Scoring three goals without injured players Diego Rossi and Wessam Abou Ali is encouraging, but they’ll face a challenge against Ohio rival Cincinnati in a high-stakes first-round match.

Orlando experienced a setback with a 4-2 loss to Toronto on Decision Day, resulting in them barely clinging to the last playoff spot in the East. Although the attack continues to create opportunities, they haven’t been efficient enough to counter ongoing defensive issues.

Austin, already confirmed in the playoffs and resting players, fell 2-1 to San Jose on Decision Day. They now face an uphill battle against LAFC in the first round, despite their recent victory over the Hollywood squad. This time, however, LAFC will field key players including Son, Bouanga, and Nathan Ordaz, who were absent during the previous encounter.

FCD capitalized on an early red card shown to a Vancouver defender, resulting in a 2-1 win over the Whitecaps and securing their playoff position. As they prepare for the best-of-three series against Vancouver, they will welcome back forwards Petar Musa and Logan Farrington from suspension, but they must be ready for the Whitecaps’ best performance.

The Timbers are limping into the playoffs, with no wins in their last five matches and only one victory in ten. Their 4-0 loss to San Diego at home underscored their struggles, especially in their once-reliable home games.

RSL managed a 2-2 draw against St. Louis despite Victor Olatunji’s two goals giving them a 2-0 lead. While this draw secured their playoff spot, it failed to instill much confidence as they look ahead.