Despite not picking up a much desired win in an exciting back and forth 1-1 draw between the Portland Timbers and D.C. United, John Spencer's squad still has a chance to make the MLS Cup Playoffs provided two things happen: The Philadelphia Union must beat the New York Red Bulls on Thursday and the Timbers must emerge from Rio Tinto Stadium victorious against Real Salt Lake on Saturday.
Here's how it breaks down for the three teams still in the mix.
MLS Cup Playoffs clinching scenarios
Portland Timbers clinch a place in the MLS Cup Playoffs IF:
- Philadelphia Union defeats New York Red Bulls AND
- Portland defeats Real Salt Lake
New York Red Bulls clinch a place in the MLS Cup Playoffs IF:
- they tie or defeat Philadelphia Union
OR
- they lose to Philadelphia Union AND
- Portland Timbers ties or loses to Real Salt Lake
- Chicago Fire fail to win against Columbus Crew
Chicago Fire clinch a place in the MLS Cup Playoffs IF:
- they defeat Columbus Crew AND
- Portland Timbers fail to win against Real Salt Lake AND
- New York Red Bulls lose to Philadelphia Union AND
- Chicago overcome a goal difference with New York of 5 goals
