MLS Cup Playoffs Heat Up: Conference Semifinals Set to Ignite with Top Teams Battling for Championship Glory
Prior to clubs envisioning themselves hoisting the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy, they must first navigate through their respective conference semifinals in the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs.
The 2025 postseason has already showcased red cards, spectacular strikes and memorable moments throughout the league. From Lionel Messi achieving his 400th career assist during Inter Miami's third game triumph to Son Heung-min netting his inaugural MLS Cup playoffs goal for LAFC, Major League Soccer's elite performers stepped up in the opening round.
However, the challenge will intensify as the top remaining squads in each conference face off following the November international break. Four encounters will decide which clubs advance to the conference finals later this month.
Here's your complete guide to the forthcoming MLS Cup playoffs conference semifinals.
2025 MLS Cup Playoffs Conference Semifinals: Schedule
The MLS Cup playoffs conference semifinals are scheduled to take place after the November international window.
Match | Date | Start Time |
|---|---|---|
Vancouver Whitecaps vs. LAFC | Saturday, Nov. 22 | 9:30 p.m. ET / 6:30 p.m. PT |
FC Cincinnati vs. Inter Miami | Sunday, Nov. 23 | 5:00 p.m. ET / 2 p.m. PT |
Philadelphia Union vs. NYCFC | Sunday, Nov. 23 | 7:30 p.m. ET / 4:30 p.m. PT |
San Diego vs. Minnesota United | Monday, Nov. 24 | 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT |
All four contests will commence at separate times, allowing neutral supporters to witness every moment of the four conference semifinals.
2025 MLS Cup Playoffs Conference Semifinals: Structure
Different from the opening round, the conference semifinals consist entirely of elimination matches. Rather than competing in a best-of-three format, each squad will fight during 90 minutes to secure their spot in the conference finals.
Should the match remain level after regular time, clubs will contest two 15-minute overtime periods. If no victor emerges following those additional 30 minutes, a penalty shootout will determine which team progresses and which faces elimination.
2025 MLS Cup Playoffs Conference Semifinals: Participants
Following an initial field of 18 teams in the postseason, just eight organizations remain in the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs.