What MLS Teams Need to Reach the 2025 Playoffs

The 2025 MLS regular season is heading into its final stretch, and the race for the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs is heating up. Some teams depend on their own results, while others need a combination of outcomes to keep their postseason hopes alive.

Western Conference Scenario

San Diego FC Already Secured

With 52 points (16-7-4), San Diego FC has locked in its playoff spot and is now focused on finishing strong to secure a better seeding.

What Does LAFC Need to Qualify?

The Black & Gold have several potential paths to clinch a playoff berth, many tied to results from other teams. Here are the main ways:

• The easiest path: if San Diego FC wins or draws against Portland Timbers.

• Through combinations of results: if FC Dallas loses or draws against LAFC and, at the same time, Austin FC, Colorado Rapids, Real Salt Lake, or San Jose Earthquakes fail to win their matches.

• Other alternate scenarios: if Houston Dynamo loses to San Jose, combined with setbacks from Austin, Colorado, or Real Salt Lake, LAFC would also clinch.

In short, a win or draw for San Diego simplifies things, while poor results for Western Conference rivals could also open the door for LAFC.

Eastern Conference Scenario

So far, no team is mathematically qualified or eliminated, but the pressure is mounting at the bottom of the standings.

CF Montréal on the Brink

With only 20 points (4-15-8), Montréal is hanging by a thread and would be officially eliminated if any of the following happen:

• They lose or draw against Austin FC.

• Chicago Fire beats Philadelphia Union.

• New York Red Bulls defeat Charlotte FC.

D.C. United in Critical Condition

Also at 20 points (4-15-8), the capital side’s chances are slipping away quickly. They will be eliminated if:

• They lose or draw against Inter Miami CF.

• Chicago Fire beats Philadelphia.

• New York Red Bulls win against Charlotte FC.

What’s Next

The next matchday will be decisive in shaping the playoff picture. In the West, LAFC has multiple paths to secure its postseason spot, while in the East both Montréal and D.C. United could be officially knocked out of contention.

The stage is set for a dramatic week in MLS 2025.