There’s a reason the word “random” wasn’t in the literature.
Major League Soccer absolutely rigged its draw for the MLS Is Back Tournament in Orlando, but we’re gonna let that slide because we’re excited to see the matches.
Rivals LAFC and the Galaxy and Toronto and Montreal being drawn together are one concept, but desired rivals Orlando and Inter Miami and Cincinnati and Columbus being put any debate to rest.
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That’s not to mention one of the matches being reported well before the 3:30 p.m. ET draw began in Florida. Plus we knew that certain draws were impossible since group stage matches will count towards what becomes the abbreviated MLS regular season.
It’s okay, MLS, we get it. Just don’t throw ice cubes at us and tell us it’s hail.
MLS has built itself up in fast and fine fashion, with derbies usually at the heart of excitement in the league. The only surprise is Portland not being drawn into Group B with Seattle and Vancouver, but that would be extremely on the nose.
Still, we’re ready to see some MLS and the six-team Group A could see anyone emerge (though Philadelphia and NYCFC will surely be favored to advance to the knockout rounds).
The winner of the MLS Is Back Tournament gets to title the tournament next year represent the league in the next CONCACAF Champions League.
Hey, maybe we’re wrong and this random draw just happened to totally benefit the league at nearly every turn. These things happen.
What matchup are you looking forward to most? 🤔
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 11, 2020
