Look at the MLS playoff field long enough and you can make a case that all 16 teams have what it takes to be contenders -- or that they're pretenders.

Messi magic in Game One! 💥 What a start for @InterMiamiCF. // Audi MLS Cup Playoffs pic.twitter.com/6ugOORVHGT Miami were able to ride that goal to a halftime lead, which put them 45 minutes closer to defeating Nashville SC in this best-of-three series,

MLS’ salary cap rules are a staple of the league, but Messi says it limits the ability of the league to attract top talent.

Lionel Messi was the only Inter Miami player who did not train with the club on Oct. 21 — three days before their first match in the MLS Cup Playoffs.