US Championship. USL Championship (Second Division)
The USL Championship is the premier professional second-tier soccer league in the United States and Canada, operated by the United Soccer League. It acts as a vital stepping stone for aspiring clubs and talents aiming for Major League Soccer. Featuring 24 teams, the league delivers high-stakes competition for playoff spots and promotion contention. Matches unfold on state-of-the-art stadiums amid passionate crowds, with the season spanning March to October, blending regular-season grind with thrilling postseason drama.
History and foundation
Launched in 2010 as USL Pro from the ashes of the USL First Division, it rebranded to USL Championship in 2015 amid restructuring. A pivotal merger with the NASL in 2017 solidified its status. Highlights include Orange County SC's record 75 points in 2021 and Phoenix Rising FC's 83-goal haul in 2019. The league has propelled MLS stars like Dylan Marsello and Nick Lundeen, nurturing U.S. national team prospects along the way.
Tournament format
The format features a 34-match regular season (17 home, 17 away). Top performers from Eastern and Western Conferences advance to playoffs: quarterfinals, semifinals, and the USL Cup final. Winners earn US Open Cup entry, while rivalries with MLS Next Pro add extra edge.
Interesting facts
Average goals per game hover at 2.8, favoring open, attacking play. Top scorers: Silvio Vasquez (25 goals in 2022 for Phoenix Rising), Ronald Martinez (24 in 2023). Standouts include ex-Premier League winger Rachid N'Sue, Oakland Roots keeper Ozzie Ramos, and San Antonio FC's Pablo Mena. Known for speedy wingers and inventive midfield maestros.