The 2025 MLS Cup playoffs bracket is taking shape ahead of the conference finals.
After a thrilling regular season came to an end on Decision Day, the road to the MLS Cup final officially began. Portland Timbers and Chicago Fire then won their respective Wild Card matches to join the remaining 14 clubs all hoping to claim MLS glory.
Supporters’ Shield winners Philadelphia Union unsurprisingly got past Chicago, becoming the first team to secure a place in their conference semifinals. Vancouver Whitecaps then followed, winning their series 2–0 over FC Dallas.
A series of thrilling Game 3 showdowns then decided the remaining clubs still alive in the postseason. NYCFC and Inter Miami dominated Charlotte and Nashville respectively to advance, while FC Cincinnati secured a narrow win over Columbus Crew. Minnesota United needed penalties to get by Seattle Sounders.
The grand finale came at Snapdragon Stadium, where San Diego thrashed Portland Timbers 4–0 to become the final team through to the next round.
Vancouver Whitecaps then became the first team to advance to a conference final with a thrilling, penalty kick victory over LAFC on Saturday night. Inter Miami soon followed with a dominant 4–0 victory against FC Cincinnati in which Lionel Messi played a part in all four goals.
Just hours later, it was NYCFC that secured their place in the Eastern Conference final with a 1–0 victory over Philadelphia Union. The following day, San Diego FC became the last team to advance thanks to a lone goal from Anders Dreyer.
Here’s a detailed look at the MLS Cup playoffs bracket at this stage of the competition, important dates and potential conference finals matchups.
