The Evolution of the MLS Playoffs

Major League Soccer is looking to once again change their MLS Cup Playoff format which I have to assume is finically motivated headed into the 2026 cycle with the USA along with Canada and Mexico will be hosting the World Cup.

Here’s a look back at the changes and or expanded its playoffs many times over its existence and here’s how it’s changed over the last 26 years.

1996-1999 (8 Teams with a minimum of 13 Matches to a maximum of 19 matches)

In the first four seasons of the MLS, the playoffs included eight teams, which would play a best-of-three series to advance to the Conference Semifinals and Conference Finals. No ties were allowed and teams would go to penalty kicks to determine the…