Who can clinch, who has work and what’s at stake in Week 30

The 2022 MLS season is in the home stretch. While some teams are closing in on a coveted postseason berth, others are on the outside looking in and hoping for a strong finish to reach the playoffs.

Here’s a look at what’s a stake from a playoff perspective in this weekend’s games.

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Friday, Sept. 9

CF Montreal vs. Columbus Crew

For Montreal, it’s pretty simple. Win and you are in. Head coach Wilfried Nancy has done a masterful job this season in Quebec and a victory over sixth-place Columbus would seal the deal and also keep their slim Supporters’ Shield hopes intact. Meanwhile, Columbus would like a win to possibly fend off New England and Cincinnati from jumping them in the table and leaving them out of the playoff zone in eighth place.

Saturday, Sept. 10

Charlotte FC vs. New York City FC

Despite a 1-1 draw at Cincinnati on Wednesday that has kept them winless in four straight games, reigning champions NYCFC are still in position to host a first-round playoff game. However, time is running out on 12th-place Charlotte to make up seven points to get into the playoff zone.

Nashville SC vs. LA Galaxy

Only four points separate third from seventh in the west and Nashville is right in the middle of it in fourth with 45 points. They’re assured of finishing the weekend in the playoff zone, but they’d rather win to stay top four. The Galaxy are the nearest pursuers in the west for playoff spot, with 39 points in eighth place. Win, and they could be back in a postseason spot.

New York Red Bulls vs. New England Revolution

The Red Bulls are right smack dab in the middle of that second-to-fourth slot that has them on track to host in the first round. The situation is far more perilous for the Revs, who in the East’s eighth place and therefore on the outside looking in. NYRB could afford a loss here; New England can’t.

Atlanta United vs. Toronto FC

While defeat doesn’t officially eliminate either side from the playoffs, it would be…