The MLS playoff format has been a topic of debate in MLS since the implementation of new rules in the 2014 MLS Cup playoffs and after three years it is apparent that the format is not working.
The MLS playoff format for the MLS Cup conference Semi-Finals and Conference Finals according to the 2016 Major League Soccer Competition Guidelines is a “two-game aggregate series, with the lower seed hosting the 1st leg and the higher seed hosting the 2nd leg. If the aggregate score is tied after 180 minutes of play, the away goals tiebreaker rule will apply so as to be consistent with CONCACAF and FIFA practice.