The MLS Eastern Conference playoff teams have all been determined on Decision Day. These were the teams that earned the last three playoff spots in MLS.
MLS Eastern Conference playoff teams ranked fifth-seventh
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Atlanta United FC
Atlanta United FC got a big win over FC Cincinnati. They trailed early against Cincinnati. So, result wise it was disappointing for Atlanta. In terms of shots, Atlanta dominated that department. However, Atlanta failed to convert their chances in the first half and trailed 1-0. They did finally get going in the second half with two goals and a big 2-1 win on the road against FC Cincinnati. These goals came from Josef Martinez and Miles Robinson.
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Orlando City SC
Orlando City SC finished in sixth place in the Eastern Conference. The goal from Sebas Méndez played a major role in eliminating CF Montreal from qualifying to the 2021 MLS Cup playoffs. Unfortunately, for Montreal, Romell Quioto’s goal was called offside a few minutes afterwards. A red card for Rudy Camacho in the 79-minute and a goal by Daryl Dike in the 86-minute sealed Montreal’s fate and gave Orlando the sixth-place playoff seed berth.
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New York Red Bulls
We love you, Fabi 💚💛 #RBNY pic.twitter.com/30SerKiIY5
— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) November 7, 2021
The New York Red Bulls did just enough to keep themselves in the playoffs. Fábio Roberto Gomes Netto’s goal within the first minute of play was the reason why they are in the 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs. They had more chances with shots and shots on goal but were unable to convert. Still, the Red Bulls squeaked through to the MLS Cup playoffs. A loss would have meant the Red Bulls did not qualify as D.C. United won their game against Toronto FC.
Teams that did not make the MLS Cup Playoffs
Last few East spots in the Audi #MLSCupPlayoffs are set.
IN:@ATLUTD @OrlandoCitySC @NewYorkRedBulls
OUT:@dcunited @ColumbusCrew
@clubdefootmtl pic.twitter.com/l9kvYpAFj4— Major League Soccer (@MLS) November 7, 2021
Montreal blew games late recently against the New York Red Bulls and Toronto FC. Those points could have helped them keep their MLS Cup Playoff positions. However, as it stands right now, Montreal failed to make the MLS Cup playoffs. It would be unwise to fire Wilfried Nancy as his team played decently this year. Also, his team is in the 2021 Canadian Championship Final against TFC. A win against TFC would give Montreal hardware and become the second Canadian team to qualify for the 2022 Concacaf Champions League.
For DC United, they got the win they needed against Toronto FC at BMO Field. Unfortunately, they did not get help from Nashville SC and they also missed the MLS Cup playoffs. Ola Kamara as of right now leads the Golden Boot race. However, United had a terrible road record this year and gave up the most goals of any team in the Eastern Conference. Hernán Losada’s job is most likely secure for now. He will probably be given another year to coach the squad and get them into the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Lastly and most shockingly, defending MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew SC did not make the 2022 MLS Cup playoffs. Caleb Porter’s job though is not in danger. He won the 2020 MLS Cup and the 2021 Campeones Cup with a huge win over Cruz Azul for Columbus. It is a disappointment, but they still have won two big championships since last year.
Of the three teams that could make a run, Atlanta might be the one to make a deep MLS Cup playoff run. They are unbeaten in their last six games. However, it is going to be extremely difficult as all three teams are going to be on the road a lot if they make a deep playoff run. The Red Bulls are in a nine-game unbeaten streak but are seventh in the East but will have to face a tough Union game.
