Here's what's at stake in Monday's MLS is Back Tournament Matches

MLS is Back Tournament - what's at stake - simple for exlink

We're fully into the final round of group stage matches at the MLS is Back Tournament, beginning with two matches Monday that will decide the final finishing order in Group A.




Inter Miami CF vs. New York City FC


9:00 am ET – ESPN, ESPN Deportes in US; TSN in Canada


Both sides enter their Group A finale needing three points and probably a multi-goal victory to have a chance at securing one of the top four third-place finishes and a spot in the Round of 16, but that's only the start of what will be motivating these squads. For Inter Miami CF, it's as simple as looking for a long-awaited first victory in club history, after a combination of some uneven performances and bad luck have seen them start life in MLS on a four-match losing skid. Meanwhile, NYCFC are looking for their first win or point since Ronny Deila took over the managerial reins, following arguably the most successful season in club history in 2019 under Domenec Torrent.




Philadelphia Union vs. Orlando City SC


8:00 pm ET – ESPN, TUDN in US; TSN in Canada


At the other end of the Group A standings, the Philadelphia Union and Orlando City SC are already guaranteed their place in the 16 and will duke it out for the top spot in the group after each won their first two games. The Lions, under first-year manager Oscar Pareja, only need a point to take the top spot, holding the advantage both in goals scored and goal difference. Yet Orlando might feel they're already playing with house money having reached the knockout phase after not making the playoffs in their first five MLS seasons. The Union came into the year with the aim of not only reaching the postseason but winning trophies. Continued excellence from one of the tournament's best goalkeepers in Andre Blake should help.