The first round of the MLS playoffs has come to a close, with a record five Game 3s and a clearer picture of who the true contenders are beginning to emerge.

While the average MLS fan might point to Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami or LAFC - powered by the star duo of Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga - several other teams have shown they deserve to be in the championship conversation. And across those squads, the USMNT’s influence is unmistakable.

From the Vancouver Whitecaps, who feature Sebastian Berhalter, Brian White, and Tristan Blackmon alongside German legend Thomas Müller, to Matt Freese’s surging NYCFC, American players are shaping this postseason. FC Cincinnati could yet take down Messi’s Herons, while presumed contenders like the Seattle Sounders and Columbus Crew are facing tough questions.

GOAL looks at the major takeaways from USMNT players making an impact in the MLS playoffs.