As the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs are in full swing, the excitement is in the air, and the competition is fiercer than ever. With a new thrilling format and an expanded field, the teams are displaying breathtaking performances, leaving fans ecstatic with each match.
With a myriad of surprises and twists, the hearts of fans are divided. The current champion Los Angeles FC is struggling to maintain its top position, while FC Cincinnati is determined to prove they deserve the glory of the Supporters’ Shield. Additionally, the newcomer St. Louis City SC is challenging all expectations by making an impressive debut in the MLS Cup playoffs.
However, with the introduction of a renewed and controversial format, opinions are divided. While some praise the additional excitement and the opportunity for more teams to shine, others express concerns about the dilution of the competition and the confusion that may result.
Amidst this thrilling scenario, we invite all soccer fans to make their voices heard! Don’t miss the chance to participate in our exclusive vote to predict the winner of the 2023 MLS Cup. Make your choice and root for your favorite team. Every vote counts, and your opinion could be crucial in determining who will lift the coveted trophy this year.
Join us on this thrilling journey and take part in the vote to ensure your team is recognized as the true champion of the MLS Cup this year! Together, let’s celebrate the spirit of soccer and cheer for the ultimate victory.
Be part of the history of the 2023 MLS Cup and VOTE NOW!
- How was the regular season of MLS 2023?
The Major League Soccer (MLS) concluded its 28th season with a historic milestone, where inclusion and expansion dominated the headlines. The addition of St. Louis City SC as a new expansion team in the Western Conference and the return of Nashville SC to the Eastern Conference expanded the number of teams to 29, enriching the competition and promoting an even more competitive environment.
The regular season, which began in February and ended in October, was punctuated by an exciting interval for the Leagues Cup, a month of intense matches where MLS teams faced opponents from Liga MX. This initiative not only strengthened the ties between North American and Mexican leagues but also provided fans with a truly international sports spectacle.
The ten-year broadcast partnership between the MLS and tech giant Apple Inc. opened up new horizons for viewers, offering an innovative streaming platform, the MLS Season Pass within the Apple TV app. However, notable changes in TV broadcast rights were also seen, with ESPN no longer airing league games and Univision opting to focus only on Leagues Cup matches, leaving a gap in coverage of the regular season.
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A particularly notable change was the inclusion of Canadian clubs in the allocation of MLS qualifying spots for the 2024 CONCACAF Champions League, providing a unique opportunity for Canadian clubs to shine on the international stage, challenging the traditionally held supremacy of American clubs.
The 2023 season also saw the implementation of a significant pause during Ramadan, demonstrating a step towards inclusion and respect for the cultural and religious diversity of the league’s players. The introduction of a “feeding break” for Muslim players was a positive step, emphasizing the importance of respecting the religious practices of athletes in a high-level competition environment.
While the MLS Cup playoffs were expanded to include nine teams per conference, intensifying the rivalry and excitement of the matches, the 2023 MLS All-Star Game between the MLS All-Stars and Arsenal was a true spectacle, highlighting the quality of American soccer on a global stage.
The 2023 season marked an era of changes and significant advancements in the MLS, with the Leagues Cup playing a crucial role in promoting collaboration between the leagues and expanding opportunities for North American clubs. With a renewed focus on inclusion and sporting excellence, the MLS has demonstrated its commitment to becoming a global powerhouse in the world of soccer.
Click HERE and vote for who you think will be the champion of the 2023 MLS Cup!