MLS Playoff Preview

The MLS Cup Trophy. Image courtesy WikiMedia Foundation.

The most exciting part of the American soccer season is almost here. With precious few regular-season games remaining, Major League Soccer's post-season looks extremely enticing. Stars like Landon Donovan, David Beckham and Thierry Henry can't wait to get the playoff ball rolling, but who will come out on top?

Los Angeles and Salt Lake City are champions and runners-up, respectively, of the Western Conference, giving them prime spots in the post-season tournament. Both teams look good, but with David Beckham's return and the continued brilliance of Landon Donovan, L.A. seem the likelier champions of the two.

Out in the east, Thierry Henry's New York have just edged out runners-up Columbus for the Conference Championship. Slumping Columbus look unlikely to go far in the playoffs, whereas new-look New York's momentum appears very strong.

Seattle, San Jose and Dallas have clinched wild-card berths, while Colorado haven't yet but look very likely to. Of this group, Seattle have to be the front-runners. Fresh off winning the U.S. Open Cup, Sigi Schmid's team are firing on all cylinders and a joy to watch.

So, how does it all shake out? New York look almost certain to make it to the finals with their recent run of form and the relatively weak side of the bracket they'll face (Columbus, Colorado and San Jose). The other half of the tournament remains a mystery, however. Los Angeles have the stars (Donovan and Beckham), but Seattle have young talent and a hot streak.

Regardless of who gets to the MLS Cup Final in Toronto, it seems like this year's ride to the championship will be the most thrilling yet.