Any type of World Cup-style tournament comes with strategy — beyond the desire to win every game played, of course. The group stage, in particular, presents the dual desire to keep a squad physically sharp while also ensuring knockout round qualification.
As is typical during these unique times across the globe, the MLS is Back Tournament further complicates those considerations.
With every club's three group stage games counting toward the regular season, there are no consolation games, regardless of if a team's qualification prospects are determined prior to that final game. The 16 teams that advance to the knockout rounds will be pushing for the trophy, and with it, a Concacaf Champions League berth.