The USL Championship Playoffs are about to kickoff this Saturday, where select games will be available on CBS Sports. Louisville City FC, trained by Danny Cruz, is expected to lead the charge following an impressive season. Despite losing key players Elijah Wynder and Wilson Harris during the offseason, Louisville managed to strengthen their roster and achieved a remarkable 73 points in just 30 matches, securing the Players’ Shield for the second year consecutively.

While their overall performance didn’t guarantee a spot in the USL Cup final, there’s a different vibe this year. Louisville maintained an unbeaten streak at home, showcasing a potent offense with Phillip Goodrum contributing 13 goals and Taylor Davila offering nine assists. They only conceded eight goals in home matches at Lynn Family Stadium, a stronghold that will continue to be their base for the playoffs.

Cruz, now 35, also made history as the youngest coach to reach 100 league victories, achieving this in just 169 matches in his role. Ending the season on a 16-match unbeaten run, Louisville’s accomplishments during this extended 30-game season set a new benchmark, making anything less than a championship a surprise.

Conference Quarterfinal Schedule

All times in Eastern

• Saturday, Nov. 1
  Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC vs. Hartford Athletic | 6:30 p.m. | ESPN+
  Louisville City FC vs. Detroit City SC | 7 p.m. | CBS Sports Golazo Network
  North Carolina FC vs. Loudoun United FC | 7:30 p.m. | ESPN+
  FC Tulsa vs. Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC | 8 p.m. | ESPN+
  New Mexico United vs. San Antonio FC | 9 p.m. | ESPN+
  El Paso Locomotive FC vs. Phoenix Rising FC | 9:30 p.m. | ESPN+

• Sunday, Nov. 2
  Charleston Battery | 2 p.m. | CBS Sports Network
  Sacramento Republic FC vs. Orange County SC | 9 p.m. | CBS Sports Network

Chuck Booth’s Bracket

Bracket
Courtesy of USL

Louisville’s aspirations for a championship title remain high, especially given their strong home advantage. As the playoffs unfold, the narrative develops with their season’s success setting the stage for a thrilling postseason.