The start of the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season is quickly approaching, bringing a new wave of excitement to fans as the league celebrates its 30th anniversary. With new teams, big names, and exciting matchups on the horizon, there's a lot to look forward to as the season begins.
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami's salvation
After a stunning win in the 2024 regular season, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami will be looking to make amends after suffering an unexpected early exit from the playoffs. Determined to do their best this season and prove their strength in the postseason, the team aims to build on their recent success and advance deeper into the playoffs.
LA Galaxy's Quest for Greater Success
MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy will be out to prove that their recent victory was no fluke. Known for their history of league dominance, the Galaxy will aim to cement their status as the most successful team in MLS history. The team's veteran leadership and star power will be critical as they pursue another MLS Cup title.
New faces and new teams in San Diego
The 2025 season will also feature new players and a new expansion team. San Diego FC, the 30th team in the league, is making its MLS debut, adding to the excitement.
The club has already made headlines by signing former Napoli and PSV Eindhoven star Hirving Lozano as their first Designated Player. Additionally, other teams such as FC Cincinnati and Los Angeles FC have strengthened their squads with international talent, including Togo's Kévin Denkey and Celtic's loanee Odin Thiago Holm.
MLS Season Start Date: What You Need to Know
The 2025 MLS season begins with the much-anticipated MLS Back Weekend scheduled for Saturday, February 22nd and Sunday, February 23rd.
All 30 teams will be in action, including defending Supporters' Shield winners Inter Miami, who host New York City FC at Chase Stadium on the opening day of the season. The next day, San Diego opens its first season against reigning champions LA Galaxy.
The league currently consists of 30 teams, each of which will play 34 regular season games during the 2025 MLS season, culminating with Decision Day on Saturday, October 18. The exact postseason schedule will be announced in due course.
2025 MLS Season Key Dates
The 2025 MLS season has several exciting key dates scheduled, including the MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday, July 23rd at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas. The opponents for the MLS All-Stars have not yet been announced. Last year, the MLS All-Stars, featuring Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, lost 4-1 to Liga MX All-Stars.
In addition to the All-Star Game, this season includes Rivalry Week, League Cup (played alongside regular season matches), Club World Cup and Gold Cup breaks.
The opening weekend of the 2025 season will feature thrilling matchups, including a highly anticipated rivalry clash between the Portland Timbers and Vancouver Whitecaps. These two teams from the Cascadia region have had a long-standing rivalry dating back to the 1970s and this is one of the most anticipated matches of the season.
2025-01-14 20:58:43
2025 MLS Schedule – When does the 2025 MLS season start?
