Pro Merch Report: MLS Playoffs, European Soccer, and the Latest in Global Soccer Action – October 29, 2025

Soccer fans are buzzing today, October 29, 2025, with major developments in both Major League Soccer (MLS) and the European game.

From the opening round of the MLS playoffs to blockbuster headlines across the Premier League, LaLiga, and Ligue 1, the professional soccer world is alive with excitement. Here’s your Pro Merch Report on all the key action, transfers, injuries, and matchups shaping the sport this week.

MLS Playoffs Kick Off With Thrilling Game 1 Results

NYCFC Takes Crucial First Step

New York City FC made history in the 2025 MLS playoffs with a tense 1–0 road victory over Charlotte FC. Alonso Martínez delivered the lone goal that gave NYCFC the edge, marking the first time an away team has secured a win in this postseason. This early advantage sets the stage for a heated Game 2 on Sunday, November 2, where Charlotte FC will look to even the series.

LAFC Begins Postseason Run

Los Angeles FC kicks off their playoff journey tonight against Austin FC, with the team aiming for its second MLS Cup title. With new signing Son Heung-min leading the attack alongside Denis Bouanga, LAFC is considered one of the Western Conference favorites. Analysts expect a high-tempo, goal-laden matchup as both teams battle for early playoff momentum.

Team Updates and Stadium Enhancements

MLS teams are actively adjusting rosters now that the regular season has concluded. Real Salt Lake celebrated a standout season, with captain Rafael Cabral earning both MVP and Defensive Player of the Year honors. Meanwhile, the Houston Dynamo announced major stadium upgrades at Shell Energy Stadium, aiming to enhance the fan experience ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

For fans looking to support their favorite teams with official gear, Pro Merch offers a full selection of soccer jerseys, apparel, and collectibles, making it easy to cheer in style during the playoffs.

Key MLS Matchups This Week

Wednesday, October 29

• LAFC vs. Austin FC | 10:30 p.m. ET (MLS Season Pass/Apple TV)

Saturday, November 1

• Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire | 5:30 p.m. ET
• Inter Miami vs. Nashville SC | 7:30 p.m. ET
• Vancouver Whitecaps vs. FC Dallas | 9:30 p.m. ET
• San Diego FC vs. Portland Timbers | 9:30 p.m. ET
• NYCFC vs. Charlotte FC | 3:30 p.m. ET

Sunday, November 2

• FC Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew | 6:30 p.m. ET
• Austin FC vs. LAFC | 8:30 p.m. ET

Monday, November 3

• Minnesota United vs. Seattle Sounders | 10:30 p.m. ET

Teams favored to win the MLS Cup include Inter Miami, Philadelphia Union, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, and LAFC, while expansion side San Diego FC is turning heads with an impressive playoff debut. Key players to watch include Lionel Messi, Thomas Müller, Son Heung-min, and Hirving “Chucky” Lozano.

Premier League: Arsenal Eyes Title While Liverpool Struggles

Across the Atlantic, Arsenal continues to impress, sitting six points ahead of Manchester City after nine games. Analysts are calling it “the title to lose” for the Gunners. Conversely, Liverpool is navigating a slump, having dropped two early-season matches to Crystal Palace and now facing another Carabao Cup clash.

Transfer buzz is heating up, with Manchester City striker Erling Haaland rumored to be a Real Madrid target should Vinícius Júnior move on. These high-profile stories dominate soccer media, while clubs across England prepare for the grueling midseason schedule.

LaLiga Headlines: El Clásico Fallout and Legal Battles

El Clásico’s drama isn’t over. Barcelona’s Pedri faces a multi-week hiatus due to a hamstring injury, while Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior issued a public apology for his substitution reaction during the heated match. Off the pitch, Real Madrid is pursuing compensation from UEFA following a Spanish court ruling regarding the Super League, highlighting ongoing tensions in European football governance.

PSG and European Soccer Trends

Paris Saint-Germain announced record revenue for the 2024–25 season, cementing its status as a financial powerhouse. Today, PSG faces Lorient in Ligue 1, continuing a campaign that blends star power with strategic investment. Meanwhile, an increasing number of U.S. Women’s National Team players are heading to European clubs, drawn by lucrative contracts and the opportunity to compete at the highest levels of professional soccer abroad.

Why Pro Merch Matters Now

With playoffs, European leagues, and international transfers driving excitement, fans are more eager than ever to wear their teams with pride. Pro Merch provides a reliable hub for authentic soccer merchandise, from jerseys and training gear to collectible items. Whether you’re watching the MLS playoffs at home or following the Premier League abroad, Pro Merch ensures you can represent your club in style and authenticity.

October 29, 2025, is shaping up as a pivotal day in professional soccer. MLS playoff drama, European power struggles, transfer speculation, and landmark legal battles are all keeping fans on the edge of their seats. For dedicated supporters, staying informed while sporting official team gear from Pro Merch is the ultimate way to engage with the sport.

Explore Pro Merch’s full soccer collection here to elevate your fandom today.

The 2025 MLS playoffs are in the Round One, Best-of-3 series, with matchups continuing through early November. Key upcoming matchups involve Inter Miami, the reigning Supporters’ Shield winners Philadelphia Union, and other top contenders. 

Upcoming matchups

Wednesday, October 29

• LAFC vs. Austin FC (10:30 p.m. ET, MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 1 for the two Western Conference rivals, who have not faced off in the playoffs since 2023.
  • Players to watch: LAFC features the attacking duo of Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga. 

Saturday, November 1

• Philadelphia Union vs. Chicago Fire (5:30 p.m. ET, MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 2, following their tie where the Union won on penalty kicks.
• Inter Miami vs. Nashville SC (7:30 p.m. ET, MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 2, after Miami took Game 1 with a 3–1 victory behind two goals from Lionel Messi.
• Vancouver Whitecaps vs. FC Dallas (9:30 p.m. ET, MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 2, after the Whitecaps dominated Game 1 with a 3–0 win.
• San Diego FC vs. Portland Timbers (9:30 p.m. ET, MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 2 after San Diego’s 2–1 Game 1 victory.
• NYCFC vs. Charlotte FC (3:30 p.m. ET, MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 2 of the series, where NYCFC leads 1–0 after winning on the road. 

Sunday, November 2

• FC Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew (6:30 p.m. ET, MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 2 of the “Hell is Real” derby, with Cincinnati leading 1–0.
• Austin FC vs. LAFC (8:30 p.m. ET, FS1/FOX Deportes/MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 2 for LAFC and Austin. 

Monday, November 3

• Minnesota United vs. Seattle Sounders (10:30 p.m. ET, FS1/MLS Season Pass/Apple TV): This is Game 2 of their series after Minnesota’s Game 1 win on penalty kicks. 

According to most oddsmakers and analysts, several teams are favored to win the 2025 MLS Cup besides the ones already discussed. The most consistent top contenders include the Philadelphia Union, Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Los Angeles FC (LAFC), and expansion team San Diego FC. 

Here are the other teams favored to win the 2025 MLS Cup: