The host for MLS Cup 2025 will be the highest-ranked remaining team in the Supporters’ Shield standings, with Philadelphia Union currently leading, and the final is scheduled for December 6. The hosting rules depend on the regular-season points, with the top team hosting unless both finalists have equal points, in which case wins or goal difference determine the host. Several teams are in contention, but some Western Conference teams cannot host due to their points totals.
The Philadelphia Union won the 2025 MLS Supporters' Shield, securing the league's best regular-season record and home-field advantage in the playoffs, led by a successful first season under coach Bradley Carnell and featuring key players like Tai Baribo and Jakob Glesnes.
As MLS approaches Decision Day, Lionel Messi is the frontrunner for MVP, having surpassed 2,000 minutes and leading in goal contributions, with a strong chance to win back-to-back MVP awards. The Supporters' Shield race is tight, with Philadelphia Union and Miami vying, while Vancouver, San Diego, and LAFC are contending in the Western Conference. Other awards and season milestones are also discussed, emphasizing the league's unpredictability and excitement as the season concludes.
Philadelphia Union extended their lead in the Supporters' Shield race with a dominant 6-0 win, while FC Cincinnati's defensive issues and lack of finishing hurt their title hopes. Other notable stories include San Diego's struggles without Iloski, injuries affecting Vancouver and Seattle, and Miami's missed opportunities. The playoff race is heating up with teams like Chicago, NYCFC, RSL, and Dallas vying for positions, while others like Columbus and Houston face setbacks. LAFC continues to impress with their attacking duo, but their true strength will be tested in the playoffs.
The article highlights key developments in MLS, including the Seattle Sounders' deep roster and recent victory despite injuries, Orlando City's rising threat level, LAFC's tactical adjustments with Son Heung-Min, the competitive Supporters' Shield race, and San Diego FC's record-breaking expansion season, emphasizing the league's dynamic and competitive landscape.
Matchday 26 in MLS saw Columbus Crew dominate LAFC 5-1 in a rematch of last year's MLS Cup, showcasing their unique and effective style of play. Charlotte FC also had a standout performance, defeating FC Cincinnati 3-1, with a crucial penalty save by Kristijan Kahlina. The Supporters' Shield race is heating up, with Columbus emerging as strong contenders despite not being at the top yet. Other notable results include wins for D.C. United, CF Montréal, and Orlando City, while teams like Philadelphia Union and Austin FC continue to struggle.
The New York Red Bulls claimed the lead in the race for the Supporters' Shield with a 2-1 win against Cincinnati, with head coach Sandro Schwarz emphasizing the team's focus on performance and confidence rather than celebrating early. Striker Dante Vanzeir expressed the team's extra motivation from last year's history with Cincinnati, while former Cincy midfielder Frankie Amaya silenced the home crowd with a goal, reflecting on his contentious relationship with the fans. The Red Bulls have faced tough tests in the early season and are now preparing for their next match against Chicago Fire FC.
FC Cincinnati defeated Club de Foot Montréal 3-0 at TQL Stadium, pushing their MLS regular season record to 8-1-3 and placing them at the top of the race for the Supporters Shield. The win also made FC Cincinnati the fourth-ever MLS club to start a season with a 7-0-0 record at home. Luciano Acosta and Brandon Vazquez scored for FC Cincinnati, while goalkeeper Roman Celentano made four saves to preserve his sixth shutout of the season.
