The MLS Cup Playoffs are an annual highlight for soccer enthusiasts, drawing attention from across the globe as teams compete for the championship title. For those eager to catch every moment of the action, understanding how to watch the MLS Cup Playoffs is essential. This guide will detail the various options for streaming and viewing these exciting matches, ensuring you won’t miss a beat of the postseason drama.
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The MLS playoffs are officially underway with a thrilling best-of-three knockout phase, followed by intense single-game semifinals, conference finals, and the highly anticipated MLS Cup. This milestone year for the league saw the addition of its 30th team, San Diego FC, and thrilling signings like Thomas Müller to the Vancouver Whitecaps and Son Heung-min to LAFC.
Streaming Options for the MLS Cup Playoffs
Apple TV is the primary platform for watching the MLS Cup Playoffs this year, simplifying access for viewers. Previously exclusive to the MLS Season Pass, Apple TV subscribers can now enjoy all playoff games without needing the additional subscription. With a few matches also available on FOX or FS1, fans have diverse options to catch the games live.
How to Watch MLS Online Without Cable
The partnership between MLS and Apple TV has reached its third season, with Apple offering a straightforward MLS Season Pass within the Apple TV app. However, this season, the pass isn’t necessary to watch playoffs, as they are accessible to all Apple TV subscribers. Additionally, select games are available on cable through networks like FOX and FS1, which can be accessed via services like Fubo.
Fans can enjoy streaming playoff games on Apple TV or through the MLS Season Pass, which offers a one-week free trial. FS1 also broadcasts certain matches, accessible with services like DirecTV and other live-streaming platforms.
Do You Need Apple TV for MLS Season Pass?
While an Apple TV subscription itself isn’t required for the MLS Season Pass, access to the Apple TV app is necessary. The app is widely available across various smart TV systems and streaming devices like Fire TV, Roku, and Google Chromecast with TV. Importantly, Apple TV subscribers can access the playoffs without the MLS Season Pass, broadening availability.
MLS Playoff Season Schedule
The MLS playoff schedule is packed with excitement. Here are some key matchups, with all times listed in Eastern:
Game One
- Inter Miami vs. Nashville SC (1-0)
- Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire (1-0)
- Vancouver Whitecaps vs. FC Dallas (1-0)
- FC Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew (1-0)
- San Diego FC vs. Portland Timbers (1-0)
- Minnesota United vs. Seattle Sounders (1-0)
- Charlotte FC vs. NYCFC (0-1)
- LAFC vs. Austin FC (Oct. 29, 10:30 p.m.)
Game Two
- Nov. 1: NYCFC vs. Charlotte FC (3:30 p.m.)
- Chicago Fire vs. Philadelphia Union (4:30 p.m.)
- Nashville SC vs. Inter Miami (7:30 p.m.)
- FC Dallas vs. Vancouver Whitecaps (9:30 p.m.)
- Portland Timbers vs. San Diego FC (9:30 p.m.)
- Nov. 2: Columbus Crew vs. FC Cincinnati (6:30 p.m.)
- Austin FC vs. LAFC (8:30 p.m.)
- Seattle Sounders vs. Minnesota United (10:30 p.m.)
