Takeaways from the start of Round One

Round One of the MLS Cup Playoffs is underway, with plenty of intriguing storylines emerging as we look ahead to Game 2 of these Best-of-3 series. Here are a few observations from our first round of playoff matches (with two left to play).

Seattle Sounders 0 (2), Minnesota United 0 (3)

Game 1 played out pretty much how we all expected, but that didn't make it any less frustrating. We can hate on Minnesota's negative tactics as much as we want, but the reality is that it works, and they're highly effective at executing them. The onus is on Seattle in Game 2 to score a goal early and get a lead. To that end, I like the idea of going with what worked at the end of Game 1 and starting Danny Musovski and pushing Jordan Morris out wide. To me, this is also a matchup that calls for Georgi Minoungou to get an extended run.

Philadelphia Union 2 (4), Chicago Fire 2 (2)

After destroying Orlando City, the Fire almost pulled off a comeback upset against the Supporters' Shield winners, falling in PKs after a 2-2 draw in regulation. That leaves Gregg Berhalter's group with an uphill battle to advance, but they also showed they're fully capable of giving Philly a run for their money. Don't be surprised if this series gets pushed to a decisive Game 3 back at Subaru Park. If that happens, I truly think Chicago has a puncher's chance at the upset.

Inter Miami 3, Nashville SC 1

Nashville SC are a genuinely good team, and they deserve credit for getting their first trophy over the line in the US Open Cup. That said, it's just pretty clear at this point that they're not much of a match for Messi and the Barca Boys, who hung three more goals on the Coyotes in Game 1. Inter Miami will get tougher tests at some point in the playoffs, but it doesn't look like it's going to be in this Round One series.

Vancouver Whitecaps 3, FC Dallas 0

FC Dallas are overmatched against Vancouver, as the Whitecaps head to Frisco looking to finish the sweep in Game 2 after absolutely obliterating Dallas 3-0 at BC Place. It arguably wasn't even that close. It's not the toughest of matchups, but this Whitecaps team has shown they're worthy of their status among the MLS Cup frontrunners. The Thomas Müller signing has been an undeniable home run so far, both on the field and in the locker room.

San Diego FC 2, Portland Timbers 1

I'll actually credit the Timbers here for showing some moxie and not folding after their ill-advised red card in the second half. I don't think it means much as far as their chances of winning this series, but perhaps Phil Neville helps his job security if they can put forth a dignified performance.

FC Cincinnati 1, Columbus Crew 0

The downfall of the Crew has been one of the more under-the-radar storylines of the stretch run of the regular season. They hung with it against Cincy, but they just don't seem to have the magic we're used to seeing from a Wilfried Nancy-coached team. Nancy's not on the hot seat (nor should he be), but I wouldn't be surprised if we see more roster turnover than usual for Columbus over the offseason, especially if they crash out of this Hell is Real series.