MLS today confirmed the format for the MLS Cup play-offs.
Like last year these will be single-leg knock-out matches, much like the English FA Cup.
Unlike last year, no fewer than 18 clubs will still be involved at the conclusion of regular-season soccer, eight in the West, which has 12 clubs, and ten in the East, which comprises 14.
All eight Western Conference teams will directly advance to the first round of the play-offs, however with the greater numbers in the East, only teams finishing in the top six will go directly into the first round.