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