Soccer is one of the most popular sports in the world, and the United States has its own professional league called Major League Soccer (MLS). The MLS is a top-tier professional soccer league in the United States and Canada, and it has gained significant popularity over the years. The league has 26 teams, with 23 based in the United States and three in Canada. The MLS is known for its high-quality players, competitive matches, and passionate fans. In this guide, we will delve into the meaning of MLS in soccer, its history, structure, and what makes it unique compared to other soccer leagues around the world. Whether you are a die-hard soccer fan or just starting to learn about the sport, this guide will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the MLS and its significance in the world of soccer.
What is MLS?
Overview of Major League Soccer
History of MLS
Major League Soccer (MLS) was founded in 1993 as a professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. The league was established in an effort to increase the popularity of soccer in North America and to provide a high-level professional league for players.
Structure of MLS
MLS is a single entity league, meaning that the league operates as a centralized organization rather than as a collection of independent teams. This structure allows the league to have a consistent set of rules and regulations for all teams, and it also allows the league to have more control over player contracts and salaries.
MLS Expansion and Realignment
MLS has undergone several rounds of expansion since its founding in 1993. The league currently consists of 26 teams, with plans to expand to 30 teams in the near future. The league has also undergone several realignments, with the most recent realignment occurring in 2015. This realignment divided the league into two conferences, with each conference consisting of 13 teams.
Importance of MLS
Significance of MLS in the Global Football Landscape
The Major League Soccer (MLS) is the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. The league was founded in 1993, and since then, it has grown to become one of the most competitive soccer leagues in the world.
The MLS has a significant impact on the global football landscape, and its importance cannot be overstated. The league has helped to develop the sport in North America, and it has also provided a platform for international players to showcase their skills.
One of the primary reasons why the MLS is so important is that it has helped to grow the sport of soccer in the United States. Before the formation of the MLS, soccer was not a widely popular sport in the country. However, the league has helped to increase the popularity of the sport, and it has also helped to create a strong fan base.
Another reason why the MLS is significant is that it has provided a platform for international players to play in North America. Many top players from around the world have played in the MLS, and this has helped to raise the level of competition in the league. The MLS has also helped to create a strong connection between the North American soccer scene and the global football community.
Impact of MLS on the U.S. Soccer Scene
The MLS has had a significant impact on the U.S. soccer scene. The league has helped to develop the sport at the professional level, and it has also helped to create a strong fan base. The MLS has also provided a platform for young players to develop their skills and pursue a career in professional soccer.
In addition to its impact on the sport, the MLS has also had a positive impact on the U.S. economy. The league generates billions of dollars in revenue each year, and it has also created thousands of jobs. The MLS has also helped to boost the tourism industry in many cities, as fans from around the world travel to watch matches.
Overall, the MLS is a vital part of the global football landscape, and its impact on the U.S. soccer scene cannot be overstated. The league has helped to grow the sport in North America, and it has also provided a platform for international players to showcase their skills. Its impact on the U.S. economy is also significant, and it has helped to create thousands of jobs and boost the tourism industry in many cities.
The Players and Teams in MLS
Player Roster and Salaries
In Major League Soccer (MLS), the player roster and salaries are crucial components that contribute to the league’s overall success. Each team in MLS is allowed to have a maximum of 30 players on their roster, including international players and domestic players. The teams are also required to comply with the MLS salary cap, which is determined by the league’s collective bargaining agreement (CBA) with the players’ union.
The MLS salary cap is a fixed amount that each team is allowed to spend on player salaries during a given season. For the 2023 season, the MLS salary cap is set at $4,756,000 per team. This means that each team can spend up to this amount on player salaries, with any excess amount being subject to penalties. The salary cap includes all forms of compensation, such as base salary, bonuses, and other incentives.
In terms of player salaries, MLS teams have the ability to sign and trade players throughout the season. However, they must remain within the salary cap limit to avoid penalties. Teams can also use various forms of allocation money to sign players, such as general allocation money (GAM) and targeted allocation money (TAM). GAM is a fixed amount of money that each team receives from the league, while TAM is additional money that teams can use to sign specific players.
It’s worth noting that MLS player salaries are generally lower compared to other top-tier soccer leagues around the world. According to a report by the Guardian, the average MLS player salary was $628,000 in 2021, which is significantly lower than the average salary in the English Premier League ($2.9 million) or La Liga ($2.4 million). However, MLS players can still earn significant salaries, with some players earning over $1 million per year.
Overall, the player roster and salaries in MLS play a crucial role in the league’s competitiveness and success. While the salary cap helps to maintain a level playing field for all teams, the ability to sign and trade players allows for exciting movement and drama throughout the season.
Teams in MLS
MLS Team Locations
Major League Soccer (MLS) is a professional soccer league in the United States and Canada, and it comprises 27 teams, with 24 based in the United States and three in Canada. The teams are divided into two conferences, the Western Conference and the Eastern Conference.
- Atlanta United FC (Atlanta, Georgia)
- Austin FC (Austin, Texas)
- Chicago Fire FC (Chicago, Illinois)
- Colorado Rapids (Commerce City, Colorado)
- Columbus Crew SC (Columbus, Ohio)
- D.C. United (Washington, D.C.)
- LA Galaxy (Carson, California)
- LAFC (Los Angeles, California)
- Montreal Impact (Montreal, Quebec, Canada)
- Nashville SC (Nashville, Tennessee)
- New England Revolution (Foxborough, Massachusetts)
- New York City FC (New York, New York)
- New York Red Bulls (Harrison, New Jersey)
- Orlando City SC (Orlando, Florida)
- Philadelphia Union (Chester, Pennsylvania)
- Portland Timbers (Portland, Oregon)
- Seattle Sounders FC (Seattle, Washington)
- Sporting Kansas City (Kansas City, Kansas)
- Toronto FC (Toronto, Ontario, Canada)
- Vancouver Whitecaps FC (Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada)
- CF Montréal (Montreal, Quebec, Canada)
- FC Cincinnati (Cincinnati, Ohio)
- Inter Miami CF (Miami, Florida)
- Los Angeles FC (Los Angeles, California)
- Minnesota United FC (Minneapolis, Minnesota)
- San Jose Earthquakes (San Jose, California)
MLS Team Rivalries
MLS teams have developed rivalries over the years, often based on geography, history, or on-field competition. Some of the most intense rivalries in MLS include:
- LA Galaxy vs. LAFC: The Battle of Los Angeles
- Seattle Sounders FC vs. Portland Timbers: The Cascadia Cup
- Toronto FC vs. Montreal Impact: The Canadian Classique
- New York Red Bulls vs. New York City FC: The Hudson River Derby
- D.C. United vs. Baltimore-based teams: The Maryland Megalopoli
MLS Regular Season and Playoffs
MLS Regular Season Format
The MLS regular season is a marathon-like tournament that spans across nine months, from late February to late October. It features 26 teams, each playing 34 matches in total, with 17 home games and 17 away games. The regular season is designed to be highly competitive, with each team playing every other team twice, once at home and once away. This format ensures that every team plays an equal number of games against each other, and the schedule is carefully crafted to minimize travel for teams while maximizing fan engagement.
MLS Matchday Format
MLS matchdays typically take place on Saturdays and Sundays, with a few games on weeknights as well. Each team plays one or two matches per week, with most games kicking off at 7:30 PM local time. However, some games are played during the day, especially on weekends, to accommodate fans who work during the week. Additionally, MLS also has a designated “MLS Works” program, which schedules games on weekdays to avoid conflicting with other events in the city.
MLS Home and Away Matches
Home and away matches are an essential part of the MLS regular season format. Each team plays 17 home games and 17 away games, with the location of the match determined by the team’s home field advantage. The away team wears their away kit, while the home team wears their home kit. The referee is responsible for ensuring that both teams follow the rules and that the game is played fairly.
The MLS regular season is structured to ensure that every team has an equal opportunity to compete for the MLS Cup, which is awarded to the team that wins the MLS Playoffs. The regular season is an exciting time for MLS fans, as they get to see their favorite teams compete against each other week in and week out. With the excitement of the MLS regular season, fans are eagerly anticipating the MLS Playoffs, where the real champion of the league is crowned.
MLS Playoffs Format
The MLS Playoffs is a single-elimination tournament featuring the top teams from the MLS Regular Season. The top seven teams from each conference qualify for the playoffs, with the top seed receiving a bye to the Conference Semifinals. The remaining teams compete in the Knockout Round, with the winner advancing to the next round.
MLS Playoffs Qualification Criteria
To qualify for the MLS Playoffs, a team must finish in one of the top seven spots in their respective conference. The top seed in each conference receives a bye to the Conference Semifinals, while the remaining teams compete in the Knockout Round.
MLS Playoffs Matchups and Schedule
The MLS Playoffs matchups are determined by the final standings in each conference. The highest remaining seed hosts the lowest remaining seed in the Knockout Round. The winners of the Knockout Round then advance to the Conference Semifinals, where they face the top seed in their respective conference. The winners of the Conference Semifinals then advance to the MLS Cup, which is held on a neutral site.
MLS Cup and Champions
MLS Cup
The MLS Cup is the most prestigious award in Major League Soccer (MLS), and it is awarded to the team that wins the MLS Playoffs. The MLS Cup is the culmination of a long and grueling season, and it is the ultimate prize for MLS teams.
MLS Cup History
The MLS Cup has been awarded since the league’s inception in 1996, and it has been won by a total of 22 different teams. The Los Angeles Galaxy have won the MLS Cup the most times, with a total of five victories. The Seattle Sounders FC have won the MLS Cup the most recently, in 2019.
MLS Cup Format
The MLS Cup is a single-game championship match that is played between the winners of the Eastern and Western Conferences. The game is played on a neutral site, and it is usually held in late November or early December. The MLS Cup is a winner-takes-all match, and the team that wins the game is crowned the MLS Cup champion.
MLS Champions
List of MLS Cup Winners
The MLS Cup is the most prestigious trophy in Major League Soccer, awarded to the team that wins the MLS Cup Playoffs. The list of MLS Cup winners includes some of the most successful teams in the league’s history, such as the Los Angeles Galaxy, D.C. United, and the Seattle Sounders. The first MLS Cup was won by the Los Angeles Galaxy in 1996, and since then, the trophy has been won by 23 different teams.
MLS Champions by Year
Here is a list of MLS Cup winners by year:
- 1996: Los Angeles Galaxy
- 1997: Columbus Crew
- 1998: Chicago Fire
- 1999: D.C. United
- 2000: Kansas City Wizards
- 2001: San Jose Earthquakes
- 2002: Los Angeles Galaxy
- 2003: San Jose Earthquakes
- 2004: Kansas City Wizards
- 2005: Los Angeles Galaxy
- 2006: Houston Dynamo
- 2007: Houston Dynamo
- 2008: Columbus Crew
- 2009: Los Angeles Galaxy
- 2010: Los Angeles Galaxy
- 2011: Los Angeles Galaxy
- 2012: Los Angeles Galaxy
- 2013: Sporting Kansas City
- 2014: Sporting Kansas City
- 2015: Portland Timbers
- 2016: Seattle Sounders FC
- 2017: Toronto FC
- 2018: Atlanta United FC
- 2019: Seattle Sounders FC
- 2020: Columbus Crew
- 2021: Portland Timbers
These teams have achieved great success in the MLS and have cemented their place in the league’s history. The MLS Cup is a testament to the talent and dedication of these teams, and their victories are a source of pride for their fans.
MLS and International Football
MLS and FIFA
MLS and the International Football Calendar
Major League Soccer (MLS) is one of the top professional soccer leagues in the world, but it operates on a different calendar than most international football competitions. While most international football competitions operate on a calendar that spans from August to July, the MLS season runs from March to October. This difference in the calendar can create challenges for MLS teams when it comes to participating in international competitions, such as the FIFA Club World Cup.
The MLS calendar is structured differently from the international football calendar for several reasons. One of the main reasons is that the MLS season is designed to avoid conflicts with the NFL season, which is the most popular sport in the United States. By starting its season in March and ending in October, the MLS is able to avoid competing with the NFL for spectators and media attention.
However, this difference in the calendar can create challenges for MLS teams when it comes to participating in international competitions. For example, if an MLS team qualifies for the FIFA Club World Cup, they may have to interrupt their domestic season to participate in the tournament, which can be held in December. This can be difficult for MLS teams, as they may not have as many players available due to the timing of the tournament and the fact that many players may be away on international duty with their national teams.
Another challenge that the MLS faces in terms of the international football calendar is the fact that the MLS season does not align with the European football season. This means that MLS teams may have to play their domestic season without some of their key players, who may be away on loan in Europe or with their national teams. This can make it difficult for MLS teams to compete at the highest level in international competitions.
Despite these challenges, the MLS has had some success in international competitions in recent years. For example, the Seattle Sounders won the CONCACAF Champions League in 2018, and the LA Galaxy won the FIFA Club World Cup in 2014. However, these successes have been relatively rare, and the MLS still has a long way to go to establish itself as a major player on the international football scene.
MLS and CONCACAF
MLS and the CONCACAF Champions League
The CONCACAF Champions League is a prestigious international tournament that features the top clubs from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. MLS teams have had varying success in this competition, with some teams performing exceptionally well and others struggling to make an impact.
One of the key factors in MLS teams’ performances in the CONCACAF Champions League has been the level of competition they face from other clubs in the region. Many of the top teams in the tournament come from Mexico, which has a long and storied history of football success. MLS teams have often struggled to compete with the skill and experience of these clubs, although there have been some notable exceptions.
MLS and the CONCACAF Gold Cup
The CONCACAF Gold Cup is a regional tournament that features national teams from across North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. MLS players have played a significant role in the success of the US national team in this competition, with many of the top players in the league representing the United States.
MLS players have also featured prominently for other national teams in the CONCACAF region, with many of the league’s top players representing countries from Central America and the Caribbean. This has helped to raise the profile of MLS in the region and has given the league’s players valuable international experience.
Overall, the relationship between MLS and CONCACAF is an important one, with the league’s teams and players regularly competing at the international level. While MLS may not yet be considered on par with some of the top leagues in the world, its connection to international football helps to raise its profile and provides valuable opportunities for its players to gain experience and compete at the highest level.
MLS and its Fans
MLS Fan Culture
Soccer, or football as it is known in most countries outside of the United States, is a global phenomenon that has captivated the hearts and minds of millions of people around the world. In the United States, soccer has experienced a surge in popularity in recent years, and the growth of the sport has been reflected in the increasing number of fans who attend Major League Soccer (MLS) games.
The culture of MLS fans is diverse and vibrant, with supporters’ groups playing a significant role in creating a unique and passionate atmosphere at MLS stadiums. These groups, which are often referred to as “supporters’ groups,” are dedicated to promoting and supporting their team, and they are known for their passionate and energetic support of their team.
MLS supporters’ groups are often composed of die-hard fans who have a deep emotional connection to their team. These fans are known for their enthusiasm and dedication, and they often go to great lengths to support their team. Many supporters’ groups have their own unique chants, songs, and traditions, and they use these to create a sense of community and belonging among their members.
In addition to their passionate support of their team, MLS supporters’ groups also play an important role in creating a unique and memorable experience for fans at MLS games. They often organize pre-game events, such as tailgate parties and marches to the stadium, and they use their creativity and enthusiasm to create a lively and engaging atmosphere at the stadium.
Overall, the culture of MLS fans is characterized by a deep passion for the sport and a commitment to supporting their team. Whether through their chants, songs, or other traditions, MLS supporters’ groups play a significant role in creating a unique and memorable experience for fans at MLS games.
MLS Fan Demographics
MLS Fan Age Distribution
The age distribution of MLS fans is diverse, with a range of age groups represented in the league’s fan base. According to a study conducted by the MLS, the largest percentage of fans falls within the 25-34 age group, followed closely by the 18-24 age group. This suggests that the league has a strong appeal to younger fans, as well as fans in their late 20s and early 30s. However, there is also a significant number of fans over the age of 45 who support the league, indicating that MLS has a broad appeal across different age groups.
MLS Fan Gender Distribution
MLS has a relatively even gender distribution among its fans, with women making up around 45% of the league’s fan base. This is higher than the average gender distribution for sports leagues in the United States, which tend to have a larger percentage of male fans. This is likely due to the fact that soccer has a relatively high participation rate among women and girls, and that the league has made efforts to market to and engage with female fans. Additionally, the league has a number of high-profile female players, such as Alex Morgan and Megan Rapinoe, who have helped to attract and retain female fans.
MLS Fan Engagement
MLS Social Media Presence
MLS has a strong social media presence, with official accounts on platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. The league uses these platforms to engage with fans by sharing news, highlights, and behind-the-scenes content. The MLS Twitter account, for example, has over 700,000 followers and is used to share live match updates, highlights, and news about the league. The MLS Instagram account has over 1 million followers and features photos and videos of players, stadiums, and fan culture.
MLS Fan Merchandise and Retail
MLS has a wide range of official merchandise available for purchase through its website and at stadium retail stores. This includes jerseys, hats, scarves, and other clothing items featuring the logos and colors of all 23 teams. MLS also partners with major retailers such as Adidas and Target to create exclusive lines of team merchandise.
MLS Supporters’ Groups
MLS has a thriving supporters’ culture, with official supporters’ groups for each team. These groups are known for their passionate support of their team and their creative displays of team spirit, such as tifos and other chants and songs. Supporters’ groups often have their own unique culture and traditions, and many have formed alliances with other supporters’ groups across the league.
MLS Matchday Experience
MLS has a unique matchday experience, with a focus on fan engagement and entertainment. This includes pre-match festivities such as tailgate parties and live music, as well as in-game entertainment such as half-time shows and fan contests. Many stadiums also offer special seating areas for supporters’ groups, known as “supporters’ sections,” where fans can stand and cheer for their team throughout the match.
MLS Digital Platforms
MLS has a number of digital platforms that allow fans to engage with the league and their favorite teams. This includes the MLS app, which provides live match updates, highlights, and statistics, as well as team-specific apps that offer additional content and features. MLS also has a number of online communities, such as the MLS subreddit and MLS Twitter hashtags, where fans can discuss the league and share their opinions.
MLS Fan Travel
MLS Away Supporters
MLS away supporters, also known as traveling fans, play a significant role in the atmosphere and energy of a soccer match. These fans are dedicated to their teams and often travel long distances to support them, even when they are playing away from home. Many supporters groups organize travel packages, which include transportation, accommodations, and tickets to the game.
MLS Supporter Movements and Marches
In addition to traveling to games, MLS supporters also engage in other forms of fan activism. One example is the supporter movement, where fans come together to support a specific cause or issue related to the team or league. Another example is the supporter march, where fans march through the streets in support of their team before a game. These movements and marches are often organized by supporters groups and can draw large crowds, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere before the game.
Future of MLS
MLS Expansion Plans
MLS Expansion Cities
Major League Soccer (MLS) has been growing steadily since its inception in 1993, and it is poised for even more expansion in the coming years. The league has already added several teams, including Atlanta United FC, LAFC, and Nashville SC, and it is looking to add even more clubs to its ranks. Some of the cities that have been mentioned as potential expansion cities include:
- Austin, Texas
- Charlotte, North Carolina
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Sacramento, California
- St. Louis, Missouri
- Tampa Bay, Florida
MLS Expansion Timeline
MLS Commissioner Don Garber has stated that the league plans to expand to 30 teams by 2026, which means that there will be several new teams joining the league in the coming years. The timeline for these expansions is not yet clear, but the league has stated that it will announce the next round of expansion teams in the coming months.
One factor that will likely play a role in the expansion timeline is the ongoing pandemic. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the sports industry, and it is unclear how it will affect the league’s expansion plans. However, the league has been able to navigate other challenges in the past, and it is likely that it will be able to overcome this one as well.
In addition to expanding the number of teams in the league, MLS is also looking to expand its footprint internationally. The league has already established partnerships with clubs in Europe and South America, and it is looking to establish more partnerships in the coming years. These partnerships could help the league to expand its reach and increase its popularity around the world.
Overall, the future of MLS looks bright, and the league is poised for even more growth and success in the coming years. With new teams, new partnerships, and a strong commitment to expanding the sport of soccer in the United States and around the world, MLS is sure to continue to be a major player in the global soccer landscape.
MLS Competition and Growth
MLS and New Technologies
MLS has embraced new technologies to enhance the game and make it more attractive to fans. For instance, the league has introduced a ball-tracking system that allows fans to follow the ball’s movement on the field and get insights into players’ performance. The league has also implemented a digital platform that allows fans to access live matches, highlights, and other soccer-related content.
MLS and Youth Development
MLS has been committed to youth development, with the league’s academies producing top talent like Christian Pulisic, who later joined the English Premier League side Chelsea. The league has invested heavily in its youth development programs, with each team required to have an academy that develops players from the age of 12 to 23.
However, MLS still lags behind other top leagues in terms of youth development, with many top young players opting to move to Europe to further their careers. Nevertheless, the league has made significant strides in recent years, with the emergence of talented young players like Alphonso Davies, who moved to the German side Bayern Munich from the Vancouver Whitecaps.
MLS Expansion and Global Reach
MLS Expansion
MLS has been expanding rapidly in recent years, with the league adding new teams like Nashville SC, Inter Miami CF, and Austin FC. The league plans to continue its expansion, with plans to add more teams in the coming years. The expansion is aimed at increasing the league’s competitiveness and reaching new markets.
MLS Global Reach
MLS has been growing its global reach, with the league signing partnerships with top clubs in Europe and Asia. The league has also been hosting exhibition matches against top European clubs, which have helped to raise the league’s profile globally. Additionally, MLS has been successful in attracting top international players, with the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Wayne Rooney, and David Villa playing in the league.
Overall, the future of MLS looks bright, with the league poised for continued growth and expansion. The league’s commitment to youth development and the adoption of new technologies are positive signs for the future of the league. With the right investments and strategies, MLS could become a top-tier league that rivals the best in the world.
MLS and Globalization
MLS and International Partnerships
The growth of Major League Soccer (MLS) has been characterized by an increasing emphasis on globalization. As the league continues to expand, it is becoming more important for MLS to establish partnerships with international clubs and leagues. These partnerships provide opportunities for player development and exchange programs, as well as help to raise the profile of MLS in international markets. For example, in 2018, MLS signed a partnership agreement with Liga MX, the top professional soccer league in Mexico. This partnership created the Campeones Cup, an annual match between the champions of MLS and Liga MX. The partnership also established a player loan program, allowing players from both leagues to play for each other’s teams.
MLS and Global Scouting Networks
MLS has also been expanding its global scouting networks in order to identify and recruit top talent from around the world. The league has established a network of scouts and scouting academies in various countries, including Brazil, Mexico, and Europe. This has allowed MLS to compete with other top leagues in the signing of high-profile players. Additionally, MLS has also been successful in developing its own talent through its homegrown player rule, which allows teams to sign players from their own academy teams. This has led to the development of numerous young players who have gone on to represent the United States national team, such as Christian Pulisic and Tyler Adams.
In conclusion, MLS’s focus on globalization has been instrumental in the league’s growth and success. Through partnerships with international clubs and leagues, as well as the establishment of global scouting networks, MLS has been able to attract top talent and compete with other top leagues around the world. This trend is likely to continue as MLS continues to expand and become a major player in the global soccer landscape.
FAQs
1. What does MLS stand for in soccer?
MLS stands for Major League Soccer. It is a professional soccer league in the United States and Canada that was founded in 1993.
2. How many teams are in MLS?
There are currently 26 teams in MLS, with 23 based in the United States and three in Canada.
3. Who owns the teams in MLS?
The teams in MLS are owned by a combination of individuals, groups, and organizations. Some teams are owned by single owners, while others are owned by multiple owners.
4. When does the MLS season start and end?
The MLS season typically starts in late February or early March and ends in October or November. The season is divided into two halves, with a four-month break for the FIFA World Cup.
5. How many games are played in a regular season?
Each team plays 34 regular season games, with 17 games at home and 17 games away.
6. How are the MLS teams divided?
The MLS teams are divided into two conferences: the Western Conference and the Eastern Conference. Each conference has 13 teams.
7. How are the MLS playoffs structured?
The MLS playoffs are a single-elimination tournament featuring the top seven teams from each conference. The winners of the Eastern and Western Conference playoffs meet in the MLS Cup, which is held in late November or early December.
8. Who has won the most MLS Cups?
The Los Angeles Galaxy have won the most MLS Cups, with five victories.
9. How do teams qualify for the MLS playoffs?
Teams qualify for the MLS playoffs based on their regular season record. The top seven teams from each conference qualify for the playoffs, with the highest-seeded team receiving a bye to the conference semifinals.
10. How are MLS players acquired?
MLS players can be acquired through various means, including the MLS SuperDraft, which is held in January, and the MLS transfer window, which runs from July 7 to August 12.
