Just a few matches remain in the 2022 MLS season, and after a midweek slate of games, the playoff picture — along with the Golden Boot and MVP races — is starting to become clearer.
Here’s a look at what’s at stake from a playoff perspective in this weekend’s matchups.
The Red Bulls clinched a playoff spot this week and look destined to settle in at third place in the Eastern Conference. Things are slightly trickier for NYCFC in fourth place. They hold a four-point lead over Orlando City SC in the standings, but the boys in purple have a game in hand and will square off with NYCFC in Week 33. NYCFC beat Atlas on Wednesday night in the Campeones Cup, so fatigue could be a factor for the hosts in this derby.
The Union lead the Supporters’ Shield race with 63 points and are showing no signs of slowing down. Atlanta United got a massive midweek win in Orlando and suddenly are back in the mix for a playoff spot, just two points off seventh, but are chasing teams who all have a game in hand. It’s a must-win for the home side against arguably the league’s best team.
There is still some sand left in the Revs’ hourglass, but it is starting to thin out. Sitting 10th in the East with 38 points, three out of the playoff places, New England must be desperate for a win, but judging by the Revs’ dismal display in Houston on Tuesday in a 3-1 loss, it’s easy for fans to feel pessimistic. Montreal has clinched a playoff spot and has all but sewn up second place in the Eastern Conference.
Orlando City is fifth with 42 points and can still run down NYCFC for fourth place and a home playoff game in Round One. Three points can be there for the taking against a Toronto FC side in 13th and requiring a miracle to reach the postseason.
Technically both are still alive, in 11th and 12th in the East, and Charlotte FC still has four games to play rather than just three, but with each sitting on 35 points (six back of seventh) it’s hard seeing either win out and leapfrogging the teams in front of them.
It’s too little, too late for Sporting Kansas City, who have won two in a row but are still nine points back for the last spot in the West. Minnesota can’t clinch with a win, but a victory could push the Loons into fourth and a home playoff game should Nashville stumble.
