Major League Soccer: League Rules, Structure, and Playoff Format
Introduction
Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. Sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation, MLS represents the highest level of the sport in North America.League Structure
MLS operates on a single-table format, with 29 teams divided into two conferences: Eastern and Western. Each team plays 34 regular season matches, facing every other team in its conference twice and each team in the opposite conference once. The top seven teams from each conference qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Format and Playoffs
The MLS Cup Playoffs are a single-elimination tournament, with the top three teams from each conference receiving byes to the Conference Semifinals. The remaining teams compete in a play-in round to determine the last two spots. The Conference Semifinals and Finals are played over two legs, while the MLS Cup Final is a single match.
Unique Features: The MLS Draft
The MLS draft is a unique feature that differentiates it from other soccer leagues worldwide. Every year, MLS teams have the opportunity to select college and international players who are eligible for the draft. The draft order is determined by the previous season's standings, with the worst team selecting first. This system helps ensure parity among teams and allows for the development of young talent.
Latest MLS News and Coverage
For the latest MLS news, scores, stats, standings, and highlights, visit the Sporting News. The site provides in-depth coverage of the league, including analysis, interviews, and exclusive content. Additionally, the site offers special coverage of the United States Soccer Federation and Canada Soccer.
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