Here are the latest developments in the Audi 2019 MLS Cup Playoff race with four Sunday matches remaining in Week 29:
Eastern Conference
- No. 1 seed: East-leading NYCFC drew FC Dallas in the National Soccer Hall of Fame Game on Sunday, leaving them four points up on Atlanta United heading into their midweek clash.
- Who will host in Round 1? (No. 2-No. 4 seeds): If they don't claim the No. 1 seed, Atlanta are still guaranteed to host a Round 1 playoff match with Saturday's win. The Union have done the same despite their 2-0 loss to the New York Red Bulls. Meanwhile, it looks like a three-team race for the precious No. 4 seed between D.C. United (No. 4), the Red Bulls (No. 5) and Toronto FC (No. 6). United ended the week No. 4 thanks to their 2-0 win over the Seattle Sounders on Sunday night.
- Chase for final playoff spots (No. 5-No. 7 seeds): There's only one playoff spot still up for grabs in the East and the New England Revolution seem poised to lock it up, despite only drawing at home to RSL in Week 29. The Revs have a three-point lead and a game in hand on the pursuers below the playoff line. Chicago, Montreal and Orlando all failed to win in Week 29, which would have added more intrigue to the chase for the final spot.
Western Conference
- No. 1 seed:LAFC have the No. 1 seed locked up and now have their sights set on clinching the Supporters' Shield for the best regular season record. Given their home draw against Toronto FC, that quest will need to wait until next week.
- Who will host in Round 1? (No. 2-No. 4 seeds): Results on Saturday saw the LA Galaxy leap into this zone with a win, dropping Real Salt Lake out. The Seattle Sounders and Minnesota United hold the other two spots here after the Loons drew at Portland and Seattle losing at D.C. United.
- Chase for final playoff spots (No. 5-No. 7 seeds): The Portland Timbers are on the outside looking in, after they failed to score at home for the third match in a row. The San Jose Earthquakes are no longer a sure bet to qualify after three straight losses, as they will battle Dallas and Portland for the last two spots. The Colorado Rapids, Houston Dynamo and Sporting Kansas City are all hanging by a thread.
