FC Cincinnati clinched the Eastern Conference's No. 2 seed with a 3-0 playoff-clinching win over Montreal.

FC Cincinnati secured the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference with a 3-0 win over CF Montreal on Decision Day, finishing the regular season 20-9-5 with 65 points. Goals from Nick Hagglund, Evander (18th in MLS, 22nd overall), and Brenner ensured home-field advantage through at least the first two playoff rounds, where they will face Columbus. Montreal, finishing with 28 points, missed key chances, including a penalty hit off the post by Prince Owusu.