MLS releases full 2016 schedule

Major League Soccer announced Thursday the schedule for the 2016 season, set to kick off with a full slate of matches on March 6.

The New York Red Bulls host Toronto FC at Red Bull Arena for MLS First Kick, on a day that also features a reverse-leg rematch of the MLS Cup final between the Portland Timbers and Columbus Crew at Providence Park.

The season is set to wrap up on Oct. 23, before 12 teams compete in the playoffs for their shot at the 2016 MLS Cup.

5 notable fixtures and dates:

Portland Timbers vs. Columbus Crew - March 6

It's the rematch of a century. Well ... not really, but tensions will be high at Providence Park as these two MLS Cup finalists meet once more, with the Columbus Crew looking to quickly overthrow the league champions, the Portland Timbers, at their home ground. It's the marquee match of opening day, so all eyes will be on this one.

Toronto FC vs. FC Dallas - May 7

This date is an important one for Toronto FC, since it's the first time the Reds will be at home in the 2016 season. An eight-game road trip awaits Toronto, as BMO Field undergoes renovations once again. When TFC returns home, FC Dallas will be the opponent on a day when a new roof will loom above the heads of the Toronto faithful.

New York City vs. New York Red Bulls - May 21

Last season, the New York derby was a bit of a writeoff, since it was the inaugural season for expansion side New York City FC. This time around, the New York Red Bulls travel to Yankee Stadium to take on a different NYCFC team, led now by head coach Patrick Vieira. There's no more excuses - it's going to be a heated rivalry match, with stars on display for all to enjoy.

LA Galaxy vs. Sporting Kansas City - June 2

This is the final fixture before Major League Soccer takes its two-week break between June 2 and June 18 for the Copa America Centenario. It's a bit of a respite for each team, as the season is basically cut into two. On top of that, these two teams represent the duality of MLS, with the LA Galaxy built around its stars and Sporting Kansas City the sum of its modest parts, making for an interesting match regardless of circumstance.

Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Portland Timbers - Oct. 23

This was the key matchup in the standings for playoff qualification this time last season, but in 2016, the Vancouver Whitecaps and the Timbers will go head-to-head to not only determine Western Conference table spots but also to determine a winner for the 2016 Cascadia Cup. It's the last game of the three-team tournament, and it falls on the final day of MLS action.