7 Facts About MLS Standings

What are MLS Standings?

Major League Soccer (MLS) standings are a way to rank teams based on their performance throughout the season. They help determine which teams make it to the playoffs and who gets the coveted Supporters' Shield. Here are some interesting facts about MLS standings.

1. Points System: Teams earn points based on match results. A win gives three points, a draw one point, and a loss zero points. This system encourages teams to aim for victories rather than settling for draws.

2. Tiebreakers: When teams have the same number of points, tiebreakers come into play. The first tiebreaker is the number of wins, followed by goal differential (goals scored minus goals conceded), and then goals scored. This ensures that teams are rewarded for both winning and playing offensively.

3. Conferences: MLS is divided into two conferences: Eastern and Western. Each conference has its own standings, and teams primarily compete within their conference. This regional division helps reduce travel fatigue and fosters local rivalries.

How Playoffs are Determined

The MLS playoffs are a knockout tournament that decides the league champion. The standings play a crucial role in determining which teams qualify and their seeding.

4. Top Teams: The top seven teams from each conference make it to the playoffs. The team with the best record in each conference gets a first-round bye, giving them a direct pass to the conference semifinals. This adds extra motivation for teams to finish at the top.

5. Supporters' Shield: The team with the most points at the end of the regular season wins the Supporters' Shield. This prestigious award recognizes the best overall team performance. It also guarantees a spot in the CONCACAF Champions League, adding international competition to the mix.

Impact of Expansion Teams

MLS is a growing league, with new teams joining regularly. Expansion teams can shake up the standings and bring fresh excitement to the league.

6. New Teams: Each new team brings unique challenges and opportunities. They can disrupt the balance of power and create new rivalries. For example, when Atlanta United joined in 2017, they quickly became a dominant force, changing the dynamics of the Eastern Conference.

7. Balanced Schedule: To accommodate new teams, MLS adjusts the schedule to ensure a balanced competition. Each team plays a mix of conference and non-conference games, ensuring that all teams have a fair shot at making the playoffs. This constant evolution keeps the league dynamic and unpredictable.

Final Whistle

MLS standings are more than just numbers. They tell the story of a season's highs and lows, the battles fought on the pitch, and the strategies that paid off. Understanding how these standings work can make watching the games even more exciting. From the points system to the importance of goal difference, every detail matters. Teams work tirelessly to climb the ranks, and fans eagerly watch each match, hoping for a win that will boost their team's position. So next time you check the standings, you'll know exactly what each number means and why it matters. Keep this knowledge handy, and you'll enjoy the beautiful game even more. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the sport, understanding MLS standings adds a whole new layer of excitement to every match.