We’re in Week 29 of the MLS regular season, and playoff spots could easily be clinched this weekend. As the tight race continues, here are the matches to watch this weekend.
Saturday, September 19
Toronto FC vs. Colorado Rapids, 2 p.m.
Toronto FC is currently in fifth in the Eastern Conference, four points ahead of Montreal. Although TFC couldn’t clinch this weekend, points are key as it’s a tight race above the red line. Colorado has won the last two meetings between the teams, but TFC has experienced success over the years at Dicks Sporting Goods Park.
New York City FC vs. San Jose Earthquakes, 7 p.m.
New York City FC and San Jose are meeting for the first time ever Saturday. NYCFC currently sits in eighth in the East, but they’ve made a little headway after beating FC Dallas 2-1 last weekend. With 31 points, they’re only one behind Orlando City and two behind Montreal.
D.C. United vs. Columbus Crew SC, 7 p.m.
Both D.C. United and Columbus Crew SC are battling for a playoff berth Saturday. United’s scenario is simpler … a win and they’re in. If not, there are still multiple scenarios where they could clinch this weekend. On the other hand, the Black & Gold would secure a spot in the postseason if they beat D.C. and Chicago either wins or draws with Orlando City. With a lot at stake, United’s four-game winless streak, and Crew SC’s recent success on the road, Saturday night should be a battle.
Montreal Impact vs. New England Revolution, 8 p.m.
The only thing standing in the way of New England clinching a playoff spot Saturday night, is Montreal. With 46 points and sole possession of first place in the East, the Revs are in good position to punch their ticket to the playoffs. The Impact are fighting to stay above the cutoff line, but New England’s rolling on a five-game win streak.
Chicago Fire vs. Orlando City SC, 8:30 p.m.
While the Chicago Fire extended their winless run to three games, Orlando City SC brought its six-game winless streak to a halt. It’s the third meeting between the teams this season, with Orlando leading the series 1-0-1. Both clubs have some making up to do for a shot at the playoffs. Chicago is at the bottom of the table in 10th with 27 points, while Orlando City sits one point under the red line.
Sunday, September 20
Portland Timbers vs. New York Red Bulls, 5 p.m.
The Red Bulls are coming off a 3-2 come-from-behind victory against Chicago, where Bradley Wright-Phillips scored his sixth goal in the last seven matches. New York has two games in hand and is just a point behind New England at the top of the table. If they beat the Timbers, they’re in the playoffs.
Philadelphia Union vs. Houston Dynamo, 7 p.m.
Philadelphia will be put to the test on Sunday as they face the Houston Dynamo. The Union are currently in ninth with 30 points, while the Dynamo have a six-game undefeated streak alive against Philly.
