The MLS Cup Playoffs are heating up, and the stakes have never been higher for some of soccer’s biggest stars. Among them is Argentina’s Lionel Messi, who is striving to secure his first MLS Cup title with Inter Miami. Meanwhile, Germany’s Thomas Müller hopes to lead the Vancouver Whitecaps to an unlikely championship, and South Korean sensation Son Heung-min aims to guide LAFC back to glory.
The single-elimination games of the quarterfinals are set to take place this weekend, starting with the Vancouver Whitecaps facing LAFC on Saturday, November 22. The prediction leans towards a Vancouver victory, with a projected score of 2-1. The Whitecaps have had a lengthy break since sweeping FC Dallas in the first round, which could work to their advantage, especially with key players like Ryan Gauld and MLS Defender of the Year Triston Blackmon returning from injuries. The crowd’s support at BC Place, expected to exceed 53,000, will also play a significant role in this matchup.
In the other quarterfinal match, Inter Miami will take on FC Cincinnati on Sunday, November 23. The prediction suggests a close contest, leaning slightly towards Miami with a forecasted score of 3-2. Miami advanced through a tough battle against Nashville and is led by the indomitable Messi, who is eager to add the MLS Cup to his already illustrious career accolades. Despite having to travel to Ohio, Miami’s recent performance boosts their confidence going into this pivotal game.
The Philadelphia Union will also be in action on Sunday, facing off against New York City FC. With a prediction of 3-1 in favor of Philadelphia, the team, led by first-year coach Bradley Carnell, is in pursuit of their first league title after winning the Supporters Shield. NYCFC faces significant challenges, including injuries to key players, making this matchup crucial for the Union’s title aspirations.
Lastly, on Monday, November 24, expansion team San Diego FC will compete against Minnesota United, with predictions of a 2-0 victory for Minnesota. San Diego has had an exceptional debut season, winning the Western Conference and defeating the Portland Timbers in the first round. However, they may face tough competition from Minnesota, which has shown its resilience by surpassing perennial contenders.
The excitement surrounding the MLS Cup Playoffs is palpable, with fans eagerly anticipating how these matchups will unfold. Each team has the potential to create memorable moments and possibly shock the soccer world as they pursue the coveted championship.