MLS Playoff Race: Columbus Crew & FC Cincinnati Battle for Eastern Conference Spots

MLS Playoff Race: Columbus Crew & FC Cincinnati Battle for Eastern Conference Spots

By Michael Davidson

November 30, 2024 at 06:27 AM

The MLS Eastern Conference playoff race enters its final decisive weekend with both Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati fighting for postseason spots. Here's what each team needs:

FC Cincinnati (5th Place, 46 Points)

  • One game remaining vs DC United
  • Win clinches playoff spot
  • Currently favored at (+120) odds
  • Can finish anywhere from 5th to 9th place
  • Playing last-place DC United gives them favorable positioning

Columbus Crew (8th Place, 45 Points)

  • Two remaining games: at Charlotte and at Orlando
  • Control their own destiny but face tough road tests
  • Wednesday's Charlotte game resumes from July postponement (15:58 played)
  • Playoff chances based on Wednesday's result:
    • Win: 76% chance
    • Draw: 61% chance
    • Loss: 43% chance
  • Sunday odds at Orlando: Crew (+285), Orlando (-125)

Key Factors:

  • Orlando plays both Miami and Columbus this week
  • Charlotte must win both remaining games to stay alive
  • FC Cincinnati needs just one win to clinch first-ever playoff spot
  • Multiple scenarios still possible with interconnected games
  • Crew face challenge of two consecutive road matches

The playoff picture will be determined by Sunday, with positions 4-7 still completely up for grabs between multiple teams in a tight Eastern Conference race.

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