League Structure
MLS is divided into two conferences: the Eastern Conference and the Western Conference. Each conference contains a different number of teams based on geographic location. Teams in each conference play against each other multiple times during the regular season. The league also includes some inter-conference matchups to create variety in the schedule.
Regular Season
Each MLS team plays 34 matches during the regular season. Teams earn three points for a win, one point for a tie, and zero points for a loss. Teams are ranked by total points in their conference standings. The regular season typically runs from late February or early March through late October or early November.
Playoffs and MLS Cup
The top 7 teams from each conference (14 teams total) qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs. The playoff format includes play-in matches for lower-seeded teams, followed by knockout-style matches to determine conference champions. The two conference champions then compete in the MLS Cup final to determine the league champion.
Salary Cap System
MLS operates differently from many other soccer leagues by using a salary cap, which limits how much each team can spend on player salaries. This system helps keep competition balanced between wealthy and smaller-market teams. Each team also has designated player spots where they can pay above the salary cap for star players.
Additional Competitions
Beyond the regular season and playoffs, MLS teams also compete in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, a nationwide tournament open to teams from multiple leagues. MLS teams also participate in international competitions like the CONCACAF Champions Cup, which includes top teams from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean. 
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