How Many Games Does MLS Play: A Dive into the Schedule and Beyond

The Major League Soccer (MLS) season is a thrilling journey for soccer enthusiasts, filled with intense matches, unexpected outcomes, and the ever-present question: how many games does MLS play? The answer, while seemingly straightforward, opens up a broader discussion about the league’s structure, its evolution, and the unique challenges it faces in the global soccer landscape.
The Basics: MLS Regular Season
The MLS regular season typically consists of 34 games for each team. This number has been consistent in recent years, but it hasn’t always been the case. The league has undergone several changes since its inception in 1996, expanding both in terms of the number of teams and the length of the season. The 34-game schedule allows each team to play against every other team in the league at least once, with additional games against regional rivals to foster local competition and fan engagement.
The Playoffs: A Different Ball Game
Once the regular season concludes, the top teams from each conference advance to the playoffs. The playoff format has evolved over the years, but as of the most recent seasons, it includes a single-elimination tournament. The number of games a team plays in the playoffs depends on how far they advance. A team that makes it to the MLS Cup Final will play a total of 4 additional games, bringing their total for the season to 38 games.
International Competitions: Adding to the Load
For MLS teams that qualify for international competitions like the CONCACAF Champions League, the number of games can increase significantly. These tournaments often require teams to play additional matches, sometimes in quick succession, which can strain player fitness and squad depth. For example, a team that goes deep in the CONCACAF Champions League might play 6 to 8 extra games, pushing their total for the season to 40-42 games.
The Impact of Expansion
MLS has been on a steady expansion trajectory, with new teams joining the league almost every year. This expansion has implications for the number of games played. As the league grows, the schedule becomes more complex, with more teams to accommodate. Some have suggested that the league might need to reconsider its 34-game format to prevent an overly congested schedule, especially with the addition of more international competitions and the potential for more teams in the future.
The Global Context: How Does MLS Compare?
When compared to other major soccer leagues around the world, MLS’s 34-game regular season is relatively modest. For instance, the English Premier League (EPL) features a 38-game season, while Spain’s La Liga and Germany’s Bundesliga also have 34-game seasons. However, the EPL and other European leagues often have more extensive domestic cup competitions and European tournaments, which can add significantly to the number of games played by top teams.
The Player Perspective: Balancing Fitness and Performance
For players, the number of games in a season is a critical factor in managing fitness and performance. The physical demands of soccer are immense, and playing too many games in a short period can lead to injuries and burnout. MLS teams must carefully manage their squads, rotating players and ensuring adequate rest to maintain performance levels throughout the season. This is especially challenging for teams involved in multiple competitions, where the fixture list can become congested.
The Fan Experience: More Games, More Excitement?
From a fan’s perspective, more games mean more opportunities to watch their favorite teams in action. However, there is a delicate balance between providing enough games to keep fans engaged and overloading the schedule to the point where the quality of play suffers. MLS has generally struck a good balance, with a season length that provides plenty of excitement without overwhelming players or fans.
The Future: What Lies Ahead for MLS?
As MLS continues to grow, the question of how many games the league should play will remain a topic of discussion. Expansion, international competitions, and the evolving landscape of global soccer will all play a role in shaping the future of the league’s schedule. One thing is certain: MLS will continue to adapt and innovate, ensuring that it remains a vibrant and competitive league for years to come.
Related Q&A
Q: How many teams are in MLS? A: As of the 2023 season, there are 29 teams in MLS, with plans for further expansion in the coming years.
Q: How long is the MLS season? A: The MLS regular season typically runs from late February or early March to October, followed by the playoffs which conclude with the MLS Cup in early December.
Q: Do all MLS teams play the same number of games? A: Yes, all MLS teams play 34 regular-season games, but the number of playoff games varies depending on how far a team advances.
Q: How does MLS handle fixture congestion? A: MLS teams manage fixture congestion through squad rotation, careful scheduling, and sometimes by prioritizing certain competitions over others.
Q: Are there any plans to change the number of games in the MLS season? A: While there are no immediate plans to change the number of games, the league continually evaluates its schedule to ensure it meets the needs of players, teams, and fans.