Sporting KC authored one of the most dramatic turnarounds in league history to solidify their postseason berth. After starting 2023 without a win in their first 10 games (0W-7L-3D), they played inspired football the rest of the way, including a 6W-3L-0D run to close out the year. The final win that time came in a tense Decision Day game against regional rival Minnesota United FC, who also needed three points to qualify for the playoffs.
The team is led by manager and sporting director Peter Vermes, who is the longest-serving coach in MLS history after first taking over in 2009. Vermes survived demands for change early in the year from SKC’s Kansas City Cauldron supporters group, which declared last. weekend: “For the naysayers, doubters, no problem. Keep doing it because we’ll keep fighting and clawing and making our way.”