How to Run a Soccer Prediction Pool for the MLS
Learn how to run an MLS soccer prediction pool with simple scoring, private invites, matchday games, custom slates, and clear rules for your group.
Quick answer
An MLS prediction pool is a simple way to make the regular season, rivalry matches, Leagues Cup-style weeks, and playoff races more competitive for your group. Players predict scores, earn points, and follow the standings as matches are played.
For MLS, the main decision is scope. You can run a full competition pool for a longer season, a one-matchday pool for a single weekend, or a custom slate if you only want to include selected matches.
1. Choose the MLS pool format
A full MLS pool works best when your group wants a season-long competition and is comfortable making picks over many matchdays.
If that feels too long, use a matchday game for one upcoming round of fixtures. This keeps the pool short, easy to explain, and easier for casual players to follow.
A custom slate is useful when you only want to include a few specific MLS matches, such as rivalry games, playoff-impact games, or matches your group already plans to watch.
- Full competition: best for long-term MLS fans.
- One matchday: best for a weekend pool or quick group challenge.
- Custom slate: best for selected matches or a shorter premium creator format.
2. Keep the scoring easy to understand
For most MLS pools, simple scoring is better than complicated rules. A common format is 3 points for an exact score and 1 point for the correct outcome.
Make sure players understand that picks are based on the full-time result. Keeping the scoring clear helps avoid confusion and makes the leaderboard easier to follow.
- Use default 3/1 scoring unless your group already wants custom scoring.
- Explain missed picks before the pool starts.
- Remind players that picks lock when each match starts.
3. Decide whether the MLS pool is private or public
Private MLS pools are usually best for friends, coworkers, families, supporter groups, or group chats. You control who joins and can invite people directly.
Public Goal Coins games are better when you want a broader pool that eligible GoalPicks users can find and join.
- Use private for known groups and invite-only pools.
- Use public when discovery matters more than controlling membership.
- If your private pool uses cash, handle payments outside GoalPicks and explain that clearly.
4. Invite players before the first MLS match kicks off
MLS matchdays can include several matches close together, so invite players early and make sure they know when picks lock.
For casual groups, a short message with the pool link, scoring format, and first kickoff time is usually enough.
- Send the invite link before the first selected match.
- Tell players whether the pool is full season, one matchday, or custom slate.
- Point everyone to the game page for picks, rules, and standings.
Why GoalPicks works well for MLS pools
GoalPicks keeps MLS pool setup, picks, scoring, invites, and leaderboards in one place. That means less manual tracking and fewer repeated questions in your group chat.
The flexible game formats are especially helpful for MLS because not every group wants a season-long pool. You can keep it short with one matchday or build a custom slate around the matches your group cares about most.
Ready to create your MLS pool?
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