The Seattle Sounders have been a mainstay in Major League Soccer (MLS) since their inaugural season in 2009. As one of the most successful teams in the league, they have won four MLS Cups and made the playoffs in all but one of their seasons. However, this year, the Sounders are facing a new challenge: adjusting to the new playoff regulations set forth by MLS.
The new playoff regulations, which were announced in December 2019, are designed to make the MLS playoffs more competitive and exciting. The changes include an expanded playoff field, with 14 teams instead of 12, and a single-elimination format for the first round of the playoffs. This means that teams will have to be at their best in order to advance to the next round.
For the Sounders, this means that they will need to be even more focused and prepared for each game. With the new single-elimination format, any slip-up could mean the end of their season. The Sounders will also need to adjust to the increased competition in the playoffs, as there will be more teams vying for a spot in the MLS Cup.
The Sounders have already taken steps to prepare for the new playoff regulations. They have added depth to their roster with the signings of players such as João Paulo and Yeimar Gómez Andrade. They have also made changes to their coaching staff, bringing in former USMNT coach Gregg Berhalter as an assistant coach.
The Sounders are confident that they can adjust to the new playoff regulations and make a deep run in the MLS Cup Playoffs. With a talented roster and experienced coaching staff, they are well-equipped to make a run at the MLS Cup. It remains to be seen if they can make the necessary adjustments and reach their goal of winning another MLS Cup.
