The stretch run is upon us, and it's time to get familiarized with the Audi 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs format.

Here's everything you need to know in the buildup to MLS Cup presented by Audi on December 6. When is Decision Day?

The final matchday of the regular season is Saturday, October 18 . Eastern Conference teams play at 6 pm ET, then Western Conference teams play at 9 pm ET.

All 30 clubs play 34 regular-season games , a marathon that began on MLS is Back opening weekend (February 22-23).

How many teams make the playoffs?

Overall, 18 teams qualify – the top 9 from the Eastern Conference and the top 9 from the Western Conference.

Seeds 1-7 in each conference automatically qualify for the Round One Best-of-3 series.

Seeds 8-9 in each conference qualify for the Wild Card Matches.

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