MLS Cup Playoffs Match Thread: The Conference Semifinals

The MLS Cup playoffs march onward today as the first games of the Conference Semifinals are played. With a full slate of games spread out across this afternoon, there is plenty of MLS action to be had even if none of it features the Portland Timbers.

Sunday, October 30th

New York Red Bulls at Montreal Impact

Watch it on: ESPN

Kickoff: 12:00 p.m. PT at Stade Saputo in Montreal, Canada

New York Red Bulls: Bye

Montreal Impact: Beat D.C. United 4-2 in the Knockout Round

Who to root for: This is a fairly benign matchup to watch and should prove interesting as the counter attacking prowess of the Impact matches up well against the possession and passing of the Red Bulls. Didier Drogba remains on the sidelines of this one with continuing “back pain”, so it is safe to feel good about the Impact — and specifically their attacking wizard, Ignacio Piatti — without endorsing his baloney.

Colorado Rapids at LA Galaxy

Watch it on: ESPN

Kickoff: 2:00 p.m. PT at the StubHub Center in Carson, CA

Colorado Rapids: Bye

LA Galaxy: Beat Real Salt Lake 3-1 in the Knockout Round

Who to root for: The Rapids might play a cynical, physical game against the Timbers, and Pablo Mastroeni might think the refs are out to get him, but it still feels better rooting for this band of misfits working together to become the best defensive side in the league than to root for the Galaxy. Emmanuel Boateng has proven that he is an exciting young player, but any side that regularly features Ashley Cole cannot be healthy for your soul.

NYCFC at Toronto FC

Watch it on: FOX Sports 1

Kickoff: 4:00 p.m. PT at BMO Field in Toronto, Canada

NYCFC: Bye

Toronto FC: Beat Philadelphia Union 3-1

Who to root for: While David Villa is as astounding on the ball as Andrea Pirlo is imperious, you still have to root for Toronto in this one. Those plucky Canadians are still only on their second ever playoff appearance after years of futility, so you have to root for them just a little bit. Plus, they do have Will Johnson and — the trump card — Giovinco.

FC Dallas at Seattle Sounders

Watch it on: FOX Sports 1

Kickoff: 6:30 p.m. PT at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, WA

FC Dallas: Bye

Seattle Sounders: Beat Sporting Kansas City 1-0

Who to root for: FC Dallas. 100%. I mean, not only are Seattle Seattle, but they went through on a blown offside call. Please, Dallas, take care of business.

Who are you rooting for in the Conference Semifinals?