Seven postponed matches were cancelled altogether in order for the playoffs to be able to start on the scheduled date.

[3][4] The 2020 regular season Supporters' Shield champions were the Philadelphia Union, who were eliminated in the first round by the New England Revolution.

The Portland Timbers and non-playoff Atlanta United FC qualified for the 2021 CONCACAF Champions League as winners of the MLS is Back Tournament and 2019 U.S. Open Cup, respectively.

Toronto FC qualified after being nominated by Canada Soccer by virtue of being the MLS finalists of the 2020 Canadian Championship.

Source: 2020 MLS Cup Playoffs Bracket The top four teams in each conference hosted the first round matches.