The Most Memorable MLS Playoff Games of All Time

The Most Memorable MLS Playoff Games of All Time

Major League Soccer (MLS) has grown from a fledgling league into one of the premier football competitions in North America. Over the years, the league has produced countless thrilling matches, with playoff games often standing out as some of the most exhilarating spectacles in the sport. The intensity of the MLS playoffs has become a hallmark of the league, providing fans with unforgettable moments that have shaped the history of the competition.

From dramatic comebacks to nail-biting penalty shootouts, the MLS playoffs have delivered some of the most memorable games in the league’s short history. These games not only showcase the talent of the players but also the passion and loyalty of the fans. In this article, we will take a journey through some of the most iconic MLS playoff games, analysing what made them so special and why they still resonate with fans today.

1. The 2003 MLS Cup Final: San Jose Earthquakes vs. Chicago Fire

One of the earliest examples of the intensity of the MLS Cup playoffs came in 2003, when the San Jose Earthquakes faced the Chicago Fire in a match that would go down in history. The game was a perfect blend of drama, passion, and footballing quality.

The Earthquakes were defending champions, and they proved their resilience in what was an emotional match. In front of a raucous home crowd at Spartan Stadium, San Jose had to overcome a Chicago Fire team that was full of firepower, including the legendary Ante Razov. The match remained deadlocked throughout regulation time, with both teams struggling to break each other down.

The turning point came in extra time, when Dwayne De Rosario scored a dramatic golden goal, securing the Earthquakes’ second MLS Cup title in a row. The win solidified San Jose’s place as a true powerhouse of the early years of the league, while the Fire’s heartbreak added a layer of drama that would become synonymous with the unpredictability of MLS playoff football.

2. The 2009 MLS Cup Final: Real Salt Lake vs. LA Galaxy

The 2009 MLS Cup final is remembered as one of the most thrilling and improbable finals in league history. Real Salt Lake, under the guidance of coach Jason Kreis, entered the match as the underdogs, facing a star-studded LA Galaxy team that included David Beckham, Landon Donovan, and Edson Buddle.

The game was held at the Home Depot Center (now Dignity Health Sports Park) in Carson, California, and it was a tense, hard-fought contest that remained scoreless through regular time. In extra time, LA Galaxy were the better team, but Real Salt Lake hung on.

It wasn’t until the 64th minute of the match that the moment of destiny arrived: Robbie Findley broke free and delivered the match’s only goal. It was a stunning victory for Real Salt Lake, one that would go down in history as a perfect example of the underdog story. Despite the Galaxy’s star power, Salt Lake’s grit and determination proved that anything could happen in the playoffs.

3. The 2014 MLS Cup Final: LA Galaxy vs. New England Revolution

The 2014 MLS Cup final was a game that encapsulated the drama and passion of MLS playoff football. In a clash between two of the league’s most successful franchises, LA Galaxy and New England Revolution, it was the Galaxy who would ultimately come out on top in what would become a memorable, hard-fought contest.

The match, which was held at the StubHub Center in Carson, California, was filled with tense moments and stunning displays of individual brilliance. New England took the lead through a 52nd-minute strike from Chris Tierney, but Galaxy Captain Robbie Keane responded with a stunning equaliser, bringing the game back to level terms.

The game seemed destined to go to penalties when, in the dying moments of extra time, Galaxy’s Landon Donovan sent in a cross that found the head of Gyasi Zardes, who made no mistake in finishing the ball into the net. The late goal sealed the win for LA Galaxy, and in the process, secured their fifth MLS Cup title. The match not only highlighted the quality of the players but also the ever-present drama that makes the MLS Cup final so special.

4. The 2018 MLS Cup Final: Atlanta United vs. Portland Timbers

Atlanta United’s victory in the 2018 MLS Cup final was a landmark moment for the league, both for the team’s remarkable rise and for the sheer spectacle of the match itself. The newly formed Atlanta United were in just their second season but had already become a force to be reckoned with, boasting star players like Josef Martínez and Miguel Almirón. They faced Portland Timbers in a tense final held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a venue renowned for its incredible atmosphere.

Portland were no pushovers, with a team led by the ever-reliable Diego Valeri. But Atlanta’s power proved too much for the Timbers. The match was a demonstration of the attacking football that had become Atlanta United’s trademark, with the team controlling possession and creating a constant stream of chances.

In the 39th minute, Franco Escobar opened the scoring for Atlanta, sending the home crowd into raptures. Despite Portland’s best efforts to equalise, the Timbers were unable to break through Atlanta’s solid defence. The match ended 2-0 in favour of Atlanta, who secured their first-ever MLS Cup title. The victory was a testament to Atlanta’s ability to build a successful team quickly and a symbol of how rapidly the league had grown in stature.

5. The 2016 MLS Playoffs: Montreal Impact vs. Toronto FC (Eastern Conference Final)

The 2016 MLS Eastern Conference final between Montreal Impact and Toronto FC was one of the most thrilling and emotional matchups in MLS playoff history. The two Canadian clubs were vying for a spot in the MLS Cup final, and the intensity of the encounter reflected the fierce rivalry between them.

Toronto, led by the incredible attacking trio of Sebastian Giovinco, Jozy Altidore, and Michael Bradley, were favourites to advance. However, Montreal was determined to upset the odds. Toronto dominated the first leg in Montreal, winning 3-2, but Montreal responded in the second leg with a spirited performance.

In front of a passionate home crowd at Stade Saputo, Montreal came from behind to win 3-0, with goals from Dominic Oduro, Matteo Mancosu, and a late strike from Ignacio Piatti. Montreal advanced to the MLS Cup final, where they ultimately lost to Seattle Sounders. However, the drama and excitement of the series made it one of the most unforgettable playoff moments.

6. The 2011 MLS Cup Final: LA Galaxy vs. Houston Dynamo

The 2011 MLS Cup final marked the final game of one of the league’s most memorable rivalries: LA Galaxy vs. Houston Dynamo. Both teams had a rich history of playoff success, and the final was a tense, hard-fought match with major implications for both teams.

The match ended in a 1-0 victory for LA Galaxy, thanks to a goal from veteran midfielder Landon Donovan. The victory not only gave the Galaxy their third MLS Cup title but also cemented Donovan’s legacy as one of the league’s greatest players. The match demonstrated the competitive nature of MLS playoff football, with every second of the game carrying immense weight.

Conclusion: The Legacy of MLS Playoff Drama

The most memorable MLS playoff games are more than just contests for silverware. They represent the passion, the drama, and the unpredictability that make Major League Soccer one of the most exciting leagues in the world. Each of the games discussed in this article showcases the diverse styles and emotional stories that have shaped MLS history. Whether it’s an underdog victory, a last-minute winner, or a penalty shootout drama, these games have captured the hearts of fans and provided some of the greatest moments in the league’s history.

As the league continues to grow, fans can rest assured that more iconic playoff moments are just around the corner. With every season, MLS builds on its legacy of unforgettable football, and with it, more stories to tell. The playoffs have proven to be the stage for some of the most unforgettable games in North American sports, and it is clear that these moments will continue to define the league for years to come.