Round 1 of the 2024 MLS Playoffs ended in the most dramatic way possible, seeing the No. 1 seed Inter Miami and Lionel Messi exit the postseason in a Game 3 loss to Atlanta United. The 2024 MLS MVP finalist led the Herons to the Supporters’ Shield while setting the all-time MLS points record during a campaign, but they fell short in playoffs.
They weren’t the only team upset, though. In fact, the top three seeds in the Eastern Conference ALL lost, with both the Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati failing to secure a berth in the Conference Semifinals, too. Elsewhere in the East, Charlotte FC existed the postseason in Dean Smith’s first taste of the MLS Playoffs on the touchline after a loss to Orlando City SC.
In the West, though, it was a different story as the three of the top four seeds were excellent. No. 1 seed LAFC eliminated the Vancouver Whitecaps, No. 2 LA Galaxy bested the Colorado Rapids and No. 4 Seattle Sounders advanced after beating the Houston Dynamo. Still, No. 3 seed RSL were eliminated at the hands of Minnesota United.
For nearly every side who failed to advance, there were noticeable areas where issues arose. Whether that be in the attack, in their defense – or perhaps, even on the touchline. Then, in a more pressing matter, it was noticeable who underperformed and where teams need to look to the transfer market this offseason.
GOAL takes a look at each playoff team that exited in Round 1 of the postseason, offering some insight into what went right, what went wrong and where they could improve this offseason.