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MLS·ANALYSIS·August 22, 2026 10:27 AM ET

MLS weighs 20-team playoff field in postseason overhaul

Double elimination and reseeding are also under review.

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated Aug 221 min read
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What happened: The proposed 2027-28 structure would use one overall table and give top seeds a second chance after an opening loss. League approval remains pending.

Why it matters: Expanding qualification could reduce the penalty for an uneven regular season, fueling criticism over the value of each match. Extra protection for high seeds would reward clubs that finish near the top.

By the numbers: The 2026 system qualifies 18 of 30 clubs, or 60%. A 20-team field would raise that share to two-thirds at the league's current size.

What to watch: Watch for formal approval and final rules governing seeding and elimination paths before the 2027-28 season.

Sources

  • r/MLS 
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