The Major League Soccer playoffs are underway, with 18 teams competing for the 2026 MLS Cup. The Opta supercomputer's predictions surprisingly do not favor defending champions Inter Miami. Nashville SC, coached by B. J. Callaghan and winners of the Supporters’ Shield, are projected to win with a 22.16% chance after an impressive regular season. They will face Orlando City or FC Cincinnati. The Vancouver Whitecaps are second favorites at 21%, having topped the Western Conference, and will play the Seattle Sounders or Real Salt Lake. FC Dallas is a strong contender with a 10.42% chance, largely due to Petar Musa’s 22 goals. Despite Lionel Messi’s exceptional form, Inter Miami, coached by Kily González, is given only an 8.24% chance to defend their title. They will play the Columbus Crew. St. Louis CITY, U.S. Open Cup winners, complete the top five with a 6.12% chance, facing LAFC.