Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:
Out-Hooped
Despite having their backs against the wall, FC Dallas hold belief they can rally from their 3-0 Conference Semifinal deficit when the Seattle Sounders come calling this Sunday for the second and decisive leg (9 pm ET, FS1 and FOX Deportes in USA; TSN in Canada).
A "good problem"
While many observers have been scratching their heads over how to best piece the LA Galaxy's attacking pieces together, perhaps Bruce Arena's shape-shifting lineup is not such a bad thing after all. We'll see who Arena decides to field in Colorado on Sunday (2 pm ET on ESPN, ESPN Deportes in USA; TSN in Canada).
Inside the mind of Arena
Arena has been around for a few playoff runs and he's considered an American soccer legend for his achievements in MLS and with the USMNT. FourFourTwo's Scott French spoke to those who know him best to draw up this profile.
Leading from the middle
Toronto FC skipper Michael Bradley has been in top form through the first two games of the playoffs. Can he continue his run at Yankee Stadium on Sunday vs. NYCFC (6:30 pm ET on FS1 and FOX Deportes in USA; TSN in Canada)?
Stress position?
In the aftermath of Sunday's loss at Toronto FC, there has reportedly been some team turmoil within NYCFC's ranks. However, publicly, the Yankee Stadium bunch are exhibiting belief that they can flip the series in Sunday's home leg vs. Toronto (6:30 pm ET on FS1 and FOX Deportes in USA; TSN in Canada).
Empty gripes
Our own Andrew Wiebe writes that the four higher-seeded clubs that were defeated in the first leg can make no excuses about the MLS Cup Playoff format.
Rising star
Following Sunday's shutout win over the New York Red Bulls, Montreal 'keeper Evan Bush is enjoying some sparkling publicity. The Impact will once again need him at the top of his game when they travel to face the New York Red Bulls in the second leg (4 pm ET on ESPN, ESPN Deportes in USA; TSN and RDS in Canada).
Plotting ahead
After a disappointing end to their 2016 season, New England Revolution striker Kei Kamara is aiming to get back to his best next year.
Happy returns?
Set to run out of contract, Vancouver midfielder Nicolas Mezquida is hoping to be back with the Whitecaps next season.
Home improvement
Though there are still i's to dot and t's to cross, Portland Timbers owner Merrit Paulson is staying positive over the club's desire to expand Providence Park.
Laying out the red carpet
FC Cincinnati have unveiled plans for the late November day when MLS Commissioner Don Garber will pay the club a visit.
Young buck
Tottenham's website has run a feature on young US defender Cameron Carter-Vickers, who displayed his physical strength from a young age.
School spirited
Colorado Rapids netminder Tim Howard has been named an honorary All-American by the NSCAA.
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