The stage is finally set for Major League Soccer play-offs. With each of the 20 teams in the two conferences having played 34 games, starting this Wednesday, and continuing into next month the 12 remaining teams will battle it out to be crowned champions on December 6th.

There are many top players in the remaining teams, which make these play-offs interesting, intriguing and unpredictable. The top two seeds in both conferences received a bye in the first round whilst the third and fourth seeds in each conference, playing at home, are getting ready to battle it out in the opening round against the fifth and sixth seeds. The match ups are as follows;

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D.C. United Vs New England Revolution: October 28

D.C. United qualified in fourth position in the Eastern Conference while New England Revolution finished a point below them in fifth. The final game loss to Columbus Crew robbed D.C. of its hopes of finishing as high as second.

On paper and recent form, D.C. is in a bad spot heading into this match. The scars of a 5-0 loss would be difficult to cover and if the team wants to start afresh in the play-offs, much will depend on the striking prowess of forward Chris Rolfe.

New England, on the other hand, will want to make the best of this situation and go deeper into the play-offs. Making it tough for United will depend on their play-maker Lee Nguyen.

This is not an easy one to call, but we feel that New England could surprise the hosts.

Seattle Sounders Vs L.A. Galaxy: October 28

If ever there is a blockbuster play-off game, then this is one. This game is fit enough to be the Western Conference Final but so it’s a shame that these two have to play so early.

The Sounders have found some late momentum and come into this game on the back of an eight match unbeaten streak. The experience and recent form of Clint Dempsey could be a game changer for the hosts.

The Galaxy would be disappointed to be playing the knock-outs so early but two losses in their last games have put the visitors on shaky ground. The experience and goals of Robbie Keane will definitely come in handy, but will it be enough?

We feel the Sounders look good to continue their recent unbeaten run.

Montreal Impact Vs Toronto F.C.: October 29

What better way to herald in the play-offs than a derby! This Canadian derby in the first round is a mouth-watering clash and should set the tone for the reminder of the season.

The hosts come on the back of three successive wins and with 11 goals in 11 matches, Didier Drogba is quickly showing how deadly he can be. The seriously in-form Ivorian could well prove to be the difference in Thursday's encounter.

Toronto has a good record against Montreal this season but they did lose their last game to them. However, the presence of Sebastian Giovinco and Jozy Altidore should give them hope and attacking penetration.

However, we still think it's difficult to look beyond Drogba powering his team through to the next round.

Portland Timbers Vs Sporting Kansas City: October 29

The fairy tale ride of Portland continues after they clinched the third spot on the final day. The icing on the cake is securing home advantage which could prove to be the clincher – thanks to their intense support group.

Diego Valeri will try to maintain his play-making ways for Timbers while Benny Feilhaber will be vital for the visitors with his assists. An interesting match in the offing but the hosts could just nick their way into the next round.

The first round matches promise to set the tone for an exciting finish to this year’s MLS season. Stay tuned and enjoy the action!

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