NYCFC Shines in Opening Round of 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs

NYCFC emerged as the only team to secure two road victories in the first round of the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, a noteworthy achievement given the challenging context of the postseason.

The Pigeons’ series victory over Charlotte FC might not seem like a significant upset—after all, it involved a No. 5 seed defeating a No. 4 seed—but it should still be regarded as a strong statement. Including play-in games, road teams have recorded only five wins against 18 losses in this postseason. Triumphing twice in such an environment, particularly against a Charlotte team that showed potential as a contender this year, is a commendable feat.

At the center of this success was Matt Freese. The USMNT goalkeeper had a quiet Game 3, with Charlotte generating just one legitimate chance, their only goal on Friday. However, over the course of the series, he made seven saves, achieving an 87.5 percent save rate. Next on the agenda for Freese and NYCFC is a match against his former team, the 2025 Supporters’ Shield winners, the Philadelphia Union. Although the Union are favored, Pascal Jansen’s squad has already demonstrated their ability to perform well in hostile environments.

On the flip side, concerns persist for Tim Ream’s Charlotte FC. The veteran USMNT defender made 12 defensive contributions during the match yet struggled to contain the confident NYCFC attack. Despite moments of brilliance this season, including a decisive win over Inter Miami, Charlotte’s offense has faltered since Patrick Agyemang’s summer transfer to Derby County. The offseason is poised to be both intriguing and challenging for the team in the Queen City.

After suffering a surprising 4-0 defeat in Game 2, FC Cincinnati rebounded with a decisive 2-1 victory over their rivals, the Columbus Crew. This performance served as both a statement and a nod to nostalgia, with Brenner, who returned on loan this season, scoring both goals to propel FCC forward.

Pat Noonan’s squad received significant contributions from American players Miles Robinson and Roman Celentano. Robinson registered 10 defensive actions, including four clearances, three tackles, and two interceptions. Celentano made four crucial saves to thwart the Crew’s attempts at scoring.

With heightened stakes ahead, Cincinnati showed ambition in the offseason by acquiring Kevin Denkey and Evander through substantial deals. Their next challenge lies against Messi’s Inter Miami. While the Herons will be favored, FCC can find solace in their status as one of the league’s most formidable defenses this season—a potential vulnerability for Miami. Robinson and Celentano will be pivotal if an upset is on the horizon.

The Seattle Sounders’ first-round exit against Minnesota United feels peculiar, given their strong history in cup competitions and the MLS Playoffs. Head coach Brian Schmetzer is usually adept in these scenarios. Nevertheless, Seattle fought valiantly in a thrilling Game 3 that ended 3-3, before Minnesota advanced 7-6 on penalties.

Seattle’s American stars shone brightly that night, with Jordan Morris finding the net once more, and Cristian Roldan making significant contributions both offensively and defensively. Schmetzer has few complaints about the outcome, especially since he didn’t have access to his full squad following Paul Arriola’s ACL injury.

Nonetheless, as the offseason approaches, Schmetzer faces three pivotal questions. First, can he revitalize Jesus Ferreira, previously one of MLS’s brightest young strikers with 18 goals in 2022? Ferreira managed a mere four goals this season and did not score in the playoffs. Second, will Arriola’s eventual return rejuvenate Seattle’s attack, given his recent contribution of 12 goals? Lastly, does the team require further investment to align with the Sounders’ high aspirations? Only time will tell.

As FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami celebrate their victories, the Columbus Crew and Nashville SC face the end of their seasons, both teams possessing several notable American players.

Max Arfsten concluded a breakout campaign in 2025 with another impressive performance, completing two dribbles, connecting on 88 percent of his passes, and contributing six defensive actions. Sean Zawadzki also made a mark before leaving the match injured, tying for a game-high with 13 defensive contributions and completing seven passes into the final third. Goalkeeper Patrick Schulte recorded three saves.

For Nashville, Walker Zimmerman faced challenges during the 4-0 loss to Miami, yet still led all players with eight defensive contributions.

Both the Crew and Nashville now enter the offseason seeking to retool their squads, having showcased potential yet ultimately falling short in Round 1.