2025 MLS Cup Playoffs: Western Conference First Round Gears Up with Star Power and Intense Rivalries

The 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs are officially underway, and the Western Conference promises an electrifying opening round. This season has been marked by significant additions, including international football sensations Son Heung-min joining LAFC and Thomas Müller gracing the Vancouver Whitecaps, alongside the impressive debut of expansion side San Diego FC. Sixteen teams are now battling for the coveted championship, with the first round featuring intense best-of-three series before the tournament transitions to single-elimination knockout rounds.

San Diego FC vs. Portland Timbers: Expansion Dominance Predicted

As the top seed, San Diego FC is widely predicted to advance in a swift two games against the Portland Timbers. The expansion team has showcased formidable strength throughout the regular season, culminating in a dominant 4-0 victory over Portland on Decision Day. While an internal matter concerning Hirving "Chucky" Lozano could potentially affect San Diego's lineup, their overall regular-season performance establishes them as heavy favorites. The Timbers, however, will be looking to disrupt the narrative, with key players Antony, Kevin Kelsy, and David Da Costa tasked with mounting an upset.

LAFC vs. Austin FC: Son Heung-min Leads the Charge

LAFC, bolstered by the star power of Son Heung-min and the prolific Denis Bouanga, is favored to overcome Austin FC in two games. Despite Son's notable success often coming against lower-ranked opposition, the sheer depth of LAFC's talent is expected to carry them through. Austin FC will undoubtedly rely on the heroics of All-Star goalkeeper Brad Stuver and their in-form striker Myrto Uzuni to challenge the star-studded LAFC side.

Vancouver Whitecaps vs. FC Dallas: Whitecaps Hold the Edge

The Vancouver Whitecaps, featuring new arrival Thomas Müller, are strongly favored to advance past FC Dallas, with a prediction of a three-game series victory. While Dallas has demonstrated an ability to frustrate Vancouver in past encounters, the Whitecaps' impressive roster depth, including the anticipated return of Tristan Blackmon, gives them a significant advantage. Dallas will look to their top forwards, Petar Musa and Logan Farrington, to make a crucial impact and defy expectations.

Minnesota United vs. Seattle Sounders: A Deep Dive into a Fierce Rivalry

The matchup between Minnesota United and the Seattle Sounders is shaping up to be one of the most compelling series of the first round, with Seattle narrowly predicted to win in three games. Despite this prediction, Minnesota United manager Eric Ramsay expresses strong optimism, drawing confidence from his team's positive regular-season results against Seattle, which included two victories. Ramsay specifically highlighted a 'defining' away victory against the Sounders as a key confidence booster for the playoffs.

Minnesota's playoff aspirations are further bolstered by the return of Kelvin Yeboah from injury. Yeboah, a key offensive player, articulated the team's belief: "I deeply believe we can go all the way," he stated, emphasizing his commitment to performing at his best. The Loons' regular season saw a historic achievement with Tani Oluwaseyi (10 goals), Anthony Markanich (9 goals), and Kelvin Yeboah (9 goals) all scoring at least nine goals. However, Minnesota has faced challenges, including the sale of Tani Oluwaseyi and several injuries, increasing their reliance on Goalkeeper of the Year contender Dayne St. Clair.

On the other side, the Seattle Sounders, who finished fifth in the Western Conference, enter the playoffs on a strong four-game unbeaten streak. Head coach Brian Schmetzer is keen to leverage his team's extensive playoff experience. "We've got experience in big games, so the messaging is pretty easy," Schmetzer commented. "We understand the importance. ... Why can't we go to Minnesota and win?" He acknowledged Minnesota's strong season but also their recent struggles, anticipating a fiercely contested series.

Seattle's offense features formidable talents like Danny Musovski, Albert Rusnák, Jesus Ferreira, and Paul Rothrock, complemented by a robust defense led by Defender of the Year finalist Jackson Ragen. A potential wildcard for Seattle, however, is the absence of DP midfielder Pedro de la Vega due to injury. Goalkeeper Stefan Frei brings a wealth of playoff experience, boasting 14 career playoff shutouts, nearing the MLS Cup Playoffs record.

Historically, Seattle has dominated this fixture, winning 14 of 19 matches. Yet, Minnesota's two victories in 2025 position them to become the first team since Portland in 2018 to win three matches (including playoffs) against Seattle in a single season. Seattle holds the record for most MLS Cup Playoff victories with 25, and coach Schmetzer ties Bruce Arena for most playoff wins with a single team with 18 victories. Minnesota's offensive set-piece efficiency, with 27 set-piece goals in the regular season, also marks a significant strength to watch in this pivotal series.