The MLS 2024 Season

Breaking Down the MLS 2024 Season Schedule: What You Need to Know

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Previewing the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) Season: Schedule, Fixtures, and Key Players

Major League Soccer (MLS) enthusiasts in the United States are eagerly anticipating the return of domestic football action as the new season kicks off this week. Founded on December 17, 1993, MLS has evolved into a premier league, fueled by the presence of marquee players in its clubs each season.

One of the defining moments in MLS history was the arrival of iconic figures like David Beckham, whose involvement elevated the league’s status since its inaugural season in 1996.

The upcoming 2024 MLS season promises another wave of excitement, with attention focused on star-studded teams and captivating fixtures. Notably, 2023 witnessed one of the league’s most significant signings, as Argentine legend Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami, a club owned by Beckham. This move, coupled with the acquisition of Sergio Busquets, positioned Inter Miami as a powerhouse in the league. The anticipation soared even higher with the addition of Luis Suarez, reuniting Messi with two former FC Barcelona teammates.

The MLS 2024 season is poised to captivate football enthusiasts of all stripes. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the match format, schedule, and fixtures, highlighting key dates from the opening game to the highly anticipated showdown. Join us as we embark on an exciting journey through the MLS 2024 season.

MLS 2024 Season Format: Regular Season and Playoffs

Regular Season:

  • Structure: The MLS 2024 season features 29 teams, including 26 from the USA and three from Canada.
  • Conference Split: Teams are divided into two conferences – the Eastern Conference (15 teams) and the Western Conference (14 teams).
  • Match Total: Each team will play a total of 34 matches during the regular season.
  • Opponents: Teams will face intra-conference opponents and play against six to seven teams from the other conference.
  • Supporters’ Shield: The team finishing atop the overall table (combining both conferences) will claim the prestigious Supporters’ Shield.

Playoffs:

  • Qualification: Following the regular season, nine teams from each conference will qualify for the MLS Cup Playoffs.
  • Format: The playoffs consist of a single-match knockout competition.
  • Conclusion: The MLS Cup championship crowns the victor, marking the culmination of the postseason excitement.

The 2024 MLS season promises a thrilling blend of intense regular season battles and high-stakes playoff showdowns, offering fans an exhilarating journey toward crowning the league’s ultimate champion.

Where to Watch MLS 2024 and Season Schedule Details

Watch MLS 2024:

  • Broadcasting Partnership: Apple and MLS have entered a 10-year partnership for broadcast and streaming rights.
  • Viewing Platform: Fans worldwide can tune in to watch MLS 2024 on the Apple TV app.

MLS 2024 Season Schedule:

  • Curtain Raiser: Inter Miami will kick off the MLS 2024 season against Real Salt Lake at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Wednesday, February 21.
  • Defending Champions’ Debut: Columbus Crew, holders of the MLS Cup, will face Atlanta United at Lower.com Field in Ohio on Saturday, February 24.
  • Supporters’ Shield Winners’ Opener: FC Cincinnati, winners of the Supporters’ Shield in 2023, will begin their campaign against Toronto FC at TQL Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio, on Sunday, February 25.
  • Regular Season Conclusion: The regular season of MLS 2024 will wrap up on October 19.
  • Playoffs Commence: MLS Cup Playoffs will kick off later in October and culminate with the championship game on December 7.

The MLS 2024 season promises exciting matchups and thrilling moments, with fans able to catch all the action on the Apple TV app. Mark your calendars for these key dates and witness the drama unfold as teams vie for supremacy in Major League Soccer.

 

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