Major League Soccer today announced it will adopt a new single-elimination playoff structure beginning in 2019. Starting next season, the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs will consist of a straight-bracket format that will further reward regular season performance with a greater homefield advantage. In addition, the new MLS postseason will see all playoff action positioned between the October and November FIFA windows as a three-week, uninterrupted sprint to MLS Cup.
As part of the new single-elimination structure, higher-seeded clubs will host all matches throughout the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, providing a greater reward for regular season success.
The 2019 MLS regular season will consist of 34 matches, beginning March 2 and concluding October 6.