MLS Cup Playoffs 2011: Schedule And TV Listings

The schedule for the 2011 MLS Cup playoffs is out and it features all but one match on national TV. The Rapids versus Crew wild card match will not be televised nationally, but each of the 12 other playoff matches will be seen on either ESPN, ESPN2 or FOX Soccer. This postseason is the first with the current playoff format, with an expanded field of 10 and the four wild card teams having to play an extra match in the wild card round to make it to the conference semifinals, but the Western Conference and Eastern Conference format remains.

Colorado are the defending MLS Cup champions, but both they and the other team in last year's MLS Cup final, Dallas, will have to come from a wild card spot to reach the final again this year. The Galaxy are the favorites to take home their third MLS Cup title after winning the Supporters' Shield this year, but the Sounders will be nipping at their heels. Unfortunately, the MLS playoff format means that LA and Seattle cannot meet in the MLS Cup final, which will be played at the Galaxy's Home Depot Center this season.

FC Dallas vs. New York Red Bulls

Colorado Rapids vs. Columbus Crew

Los Angeles Galaxy vs. Lowest Seeded Wild Card

Seattle Sounders vs. Real Salt Lake

Sporting Kansas City vs. Higher Seeded Wild Card

Houston Dynamo vs. Philadelphia Union