The MLS Cup Playoffs include 18 teams total, with 9 qualifying from each conference. This means that more than half the leagues 30 teams reach the postseason, making the regular season primarily about seeding rather than survival.
The qualification format rewards consistent regular-season performance through higher seeds and home-field advantage. The 1-seed in each conference receives a first-round bye. Seeds 2-7 host their first-round matches, while seeds 8 and 9 play Wild Card matches.