MLS Schedules

Understanding the MLS Schedule

Major League Soccer, or MLS, is the top-tier soccer league in the United States. MLS features each team playing a 34-game league that typically runs from February to October. Those looking to bet on MLS should be aware that there are two conferences, Eastern and Western, and that there’s no promotion/relegation structure. Be sure to check the updated MLS soccer schedule.

In 2022, each MLS team plays every team in their conference twice, home and away. Each team also has eight interconference matches scheduled. Point spreads are usually released one week before a match is due to be played. MLS doesn’t stop play for most regularly scheduled FIFA breaks and only takes one international break, in September. During the regular season, MLS teams can also be involved in competitions like the U.S. Open Cup, CONCACAF Champions League and Leagues Cup.

Unlike most European soccer leagues, MLS has single-elimination playoffs that run from October to November. The second-through seventh-place teams in each conference qualify for the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs while the first-place teams receive a bye into the Conference Semifinals.

The winners of the Eastern and Western Conference playoffs meet in the league championship game, called the MLS Cup. MLS Cup betting is possible at any point during the season and early-season bets can often have big value.

A big difference from most European leagues is that MLS plays during the summer. That allows a unique opportunity for MLS teams to schedule exhibition matches during their regular season vs. European teams on preseason tours. The MLS All-Star Game, typically held in August, most often features a team of MLS’ best players vs. one of Europe’s elite clubs.

MLS odds will usually reflect recent form and matchup history, whether a team is playing at home or on the road, the number of rest days a team has and any suspensions or injuries a team is carrying into a match.