MLS: Ranking all 24 Major League Soccer stadiums

ATLANTA, GA - DECEMBER 08: A wide view of the pitch from the stands of Mercedes Benz Stadium just prior to the start of the 2018 Audi MLS Cup Championship match between Atlanta United and the Portland Timbers at the Mercedes Benz Stadium on December 08, 2018 in Atlanta, GA. (Photo by Ira L. Black/Corbis via Getty Images) /

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COLUMBUS, OH- NOVEMBER 21 – Columbus Crew fabs are trying to save their team from moving to Austin as the Toronto FC plays the Columbus Crew in the first leg of the MLS Eastern Conference Championship at the MAPFRE Stadium in Columbus. November 21, 2017. (Steve Russell/Toronto Star via Getty Images) /

20. Columbus Crew SC – MAPFRE Stadium – Columbus, OH

Capacity: 19,968

Opened: 1994

Pros: Soccer-specific, natural surface, history

Cons: Age, location

MAPFRE Stadium owns the unique distinction of being the first soccer-specific stadium built in the USA. It also was the sight of the amazing ‘Save the Crew’ rally that, in no small feat, kept the team from moving to Austin. However, one of the reasons why the team was even close to relocating in the first place had to do with the stadium itself. Once the standard for soccer venues in America, MAPFRE is nos showing its age. There is no protection from the elements for supporters, the seating is uncomfortable and it is located in a desolate stretch of concrete north of downtown. Luckily for Crew supporters and MLS fans alike, plans for a new ground downtown are in the works.

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