Orlando, Philadelphia Become First Teams to Qualify For MLS Knockouts

Ilsinho (25) with Philadelphia Union in 2016. Photo by Eric Canha/CSM/Shutterstock (5778409ba)

Orlando City and Philadelphia have become the first two teams to secure their spots in the knockout stages of the MLS is Back Tournament. Both teams, hailing from Group A, enjoyed back to back wins, thereby securing their qualification after just two rounds of action.

Orlando’s first game came against MLS newcomers Inter Miami CF, who they defeated 2-1 courtesy of a dramatic 97th minute winner from Nani. Their second game proved far more comfortable, as they eased past New York City FC with a 3-1 victory.

As for Philadelphia, their campaign kicked off against New York City FC, who they defeated 1-0 courtesy of a 63rd minute Alejandro Bedoya goal. What followed was their clash against Inter Miami CF, who they defeat 2-1 with minimal stress.

The next round of action sees two Group F teams face-off, with group leaders Chicago Fire FC coming up against second-placed San Jose Sharks. Group E’s two bottom-placed sides, Atlanta United and FC Cincinnati, are also due to clash. While Atlanta narrowly lost 1-0 to New York Red Bulls in their last outing, FC Cincinnati suffered a resounding 4-0 loss at the hands of rivals Columbus Crew.