With Saturday's 2-0 win in Toronto, Columbus Crew SC secured a spot in the Audi 2015 MLS Cup Playoffs. But before the Black & Gold can plan their itinerary for the postseason, they will host D.C. United in a battle for second place in the Eastern Conference.
The outcome of Sunday's match at MAPFRE Stadium, as well as the remaining "Decision Day" contests in the East, will directly impact Crew SC's postseason. Let's break down the possible playoff scenarios.
Executive Summary: A Crew SC win over D.C. this weekend would be ideal for the Capital City. Tickets for the match are available here.
CREW SC WIN = 2nd & Bye
The Black & Gold are currently one point behind second-place D.C. United in the Eastern Conference standings. With a win, Columbus would take over second place, avoid the Knockout Round and earn an automatic berth in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
CREW SC DRAW = It's Complicated
Should Crew SC draw with D.C. United, the Black & Gold would host a Knockout Round match vs. the New England Revolution, the Montreal Impact or Toronto FC on either Oct. 28 or 29.
- New England Win + Montreal Win/Loss = 4th vs. Revolution
- New England Win + Montreal Draw = 3rd vs. Impact
- New England Draw/Loss + Montreal Win = 4th vs. Toronto
- New England Draw/Loss + Montreal Draw = 3rd vs. Revolution
- New England Draw/Loss + Montreal Loss = 4th vs. Impact
CREW SC LOSS = A Little Less Complicated
Should Crew SC lose to D.C. United, the Black & Gold would visit New England in the Knockout Round or host either Montreal or Toronto.
- New England Win + Montreal Win/Draw/Loss = 5th at Revolution
- New England Draw/Loss + Montreal Win = 4th vs. Toronto
- New England Draw/Loss + Montreal Draw/Loss = 4th vs. Impact
Click here for a look a the current Eastern Conference standings.
The tie-breaker rules that could apply on Sunday are (1) total number of wins and (2) goal differential.
