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Carlos Vela tied the record for most combined goals and assists in a single MLS season as Los Angeles FC prevailed 4-2 against New York Red Bulls, while Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez made history. Vela scored and set up two others as Supporters’ Shield leaders LAFC overcame the Red Bulls in a six-goal thriller on […]

The post MLS Review: Vela ties record, Martinez makes history appeared first on Soccer News.

The post MLS Review: Vela ties record, Martinez makes history appeared first on Soccer News.

Josef Martinez broke an MLS record by scoring in a 10th consecutive game for Atlanta United on Sunday. The Venezuelan forward headed in a Julian Gressel cross for the opening goal – and MLS record – in the 42nd minute against New York City at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Martinez continuing his hot streak meant he surpassed the […]

The post Martinez scores in 10th consecutive game to break MLS record appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Martinez scores in 10th consecutive game to break MLS record appeared first on Soccer News.

The Colorado Rapids earned their second-straight home win on Saturday night, dispatching the visiting San Jose Earthquakes, 2-1. Despite several early chances from the visitors, Colorado took a 1-0 first half lead on a 44th minute strike from Kellyn Acosta. San Jose equalized in the second half with a strike from Vako in the 62nd minute. But Diego Rubio sealed the win for the Rapids with a goal 12 minutes later.

Here are three takeaways from Colorado’s 2-1 win over San Jose:

Rubio as good as gold

The acquisition of forward Diego Rubio was touted in the preseason as one of Colorado’s best offseason moves and now it’s starting to pay dividends.

When graded alongside the other players involved in the move which brought Rubio to Colorado, Kelyn Rowe no longer plays for Kansas City (having moved to RSL at the summer transfer deadline) while Edgar Castillo is facing a downturn year in New England.

While slow out of the gate, Rubio is now a hot hand in the offense for Rapids interim head coach Conor Casey, having scored a goal in three-straight games and six in the Rapids’ past eight fixtures.

“I just try to be close to the goal,” Rubio explained, regarding his recent run of form. “Some people say once you score one, they keep coming. But it’s just working hard. It’s about the hard work of the team, it’s not just me.”

Clint’s Clangers

He received a bit of help in the first half with San Jose hitting the post and missing a few sitters in the first half, but it was an otherwise solid performance in net for Rapids backup keeper Clint Irwin, who filled in for Tim Howard (calf) for the fourth game in a row.

“He’s come in and done great,” said Rapids defender Danny Wilson. “He’s come in and made key saves at important times and he always talks well. He’s a good goalkeeper so we know that when we’re without Tim, we have a trustworthy guy behind us.”

Saturday’s result marked the first home start for Irwin for Colorado since his previous stint with the Rapids in 2015, and his first home win playing between the sticks for the side since August of the same year.

Wingardium Leviosa

Compared to their previous meeting with San Jose just two weeks ago, the Rapids made the proper adjustments including improved play on the wings.

Keegan Rosenberry, who was exposed in the prior meeting, bounced back with solid play on the wings, both defensively and in the attack.

“I thought both sides were very good [on the wings],” explained Rapids interim head coach Conor Casey. “Part of it was individual defending but also putting more pressure on [San Jose’s] center backs and sixes so they didn’t have as much time to pick people out.”

In addition to assisting Rubio’s game winner, Rosenberry was solid defensively with two interceptions and two recoveries to go along with a clearance inside the box and a crucial late game tackle to preserve the lead in the 82nd minute.

The post Rosenberry Redemption: Takeaways from Colorado’s 3-1 win over San Jose appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Bastian Schweinsteiger helped Chicago Fire to an important win in MLS, while Dallas won an eight-goal thriller on Saturday. Schweinsteiger opened his account for the MLS season at the perfect time, scoring an 88th-minute winner to see Chicago edge Montreal Impact 3-2. The former Germany and Bayern Munich star had set up Dax McCarty for […]

The post MLS Review: Schweinsteiger fires Chicago to victory, Dallas win thriller appeared first on Soccer News.

The post MLS Review: Schweinsteiger fires Chicago to victory, Dallas win thriller appeared first on Soccer News.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Two weeks removed from their 3-1 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes, the Colorado Rapids found redemption and defeated the ‘Quakes 2-1 at home by virtue of goals from Kellyn Acosta and Diego Rubio.

“We were fortunate,” Acosta said of the result. “In the first half, we were flat. At halftime, we regrouped and did a lot better defensively. We were well connected through the midfield and were able to create some chances.”

San Jose (11-5-8, 38 points) nearly took an early lead in the 4th minute, but Chris Wondolowski’s shot from the top of the box bounced off the left post directly into the hands of Clint Irwin. Irwin once again filled in for regular starter Tim Howard.

“We were balanced,” Earthquakes head coach Matias Almeyda said postgame. “It’s hard to make a fair analysis right after a game, but I think the first half was managed well by our team. We could have had two or three goals easily with some of the plays we had, but I’m also realistic and know that football is won by scoring goals.”

The post blocked another shot in the 21st minute and denied San Jose midfielder Judson a goal-scoring opportunity.

Colorado (6-12-5, 23 points) followed with a decent opportunity in the 25th minute, but Sam Nicholson’s shot missed just wide of the mark.

Two minutes later, Wondolowski missed another prime opportunity, skying the effort over the bar inside Colorado’s six-yard box.

Prior to the goal, one of Colorado’s best opportunities of the opening half came in the 38th minute when Jack Price delivered a ball in to Kei Kamara, but the forward’s header was high of the mark.

The Rapids finally opened the scoring when Acosta quickly collected the ball on a throw-in, dribbling across the top of the box and sending a low shot into the bottom left corner of San Jose’s net. The goal gave Colorado a 1-0 lead in the 44th minute.

“I was happy just to get a goal and get on the scoresheet,” Acosta said.

Colorado entered halftime with the lead, despite the Earthquakes leading the game in shots (11-7) and possession (65%).

In the second half, San Jose responded with an equalizer. Just as he had done in their prior meeting, ‘Quakes midfielder Vako found the back of the net to level the match 1-1 in the 62nd minute.

“The second half was more back and forth,” Almeyda said. “The game ended the way it did with little opportunities for the opponent, but that’s respectable, everyone wants to play the way they play.”

Colorado took the lead again 10 minutes later. Rapids defender Keegan Rosenberry laid the ball off to a streaking Diego Rubio, whose accurate strike put Colorado in front 2-1 in the 73rd minute.

“He’s been huge for us the past couple of months,” Rapids interim head coach Conor Casey said of Rubio. “He’s got a lot of goals now so he’s confident and he’s working so hard. He comes in everyday and gives you everything.”

Despite an added five minutes of extra time, Colorado saw out the win, earning back-to-back victories for the first time since June.

The Rapids will now embark on a four-game road trip, beginning with Wednesday’s trip to face Minnesota United (8 p.m. ET). San Jose will continue its current three-match road tilt with a trip to Kansas City next Saturday (8:30 p.m. ET).

“It’s all about mentality,” Acosta said of the looming road trip for Colorado. “We’ve got to come out strong and be sound defensively. Road games are tough but that’s part of it. We’ve got to take it game by game to get a result.”

The post Colorado Rapids win second consecutive home match, defeat San Jose Earthquakes 2-1 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Almost all of the clubs in Major League Soccer made improvements to their rosters during the secondary transfer window. 

Among the highlights of the acquisition period, which ran from July 9 to Aug.7, were late moves made by the two Los Angeles clubs, which made splashes with signings from South America.

Some summer signings, such as New England’s Gustavo Bou, have already made an impact on their respective clubs with the playoff push intensifying every week. Below is a look at all of the transfer window moves for all 24 MLS clubs. 

Atlanta United

Emerson Hyndman shoots during Atlanta United’s 2-0 U.S. Open Cup quarterfinal win over Saint Louis FC at Fifth Third Bank Stadium in Kennesaw, Ga., on July 10, 2019. (Courtesy of Atlanta United)

In: Emerson Hyndman (loan from AFC Bournemouth), Mo Adams (trade with Chicago) 

Out: Romario Williams (traded to Columbus), Gordon Wild (waived) 

Atlanta United’s pair of additions have already contributed in the scoring column in their short time with the club.

Emerson Hyndman, who scored in the U.S. Open Cup semifinals Tuesday, has provided the Five Stripes with a valuable midfield piece behind their slew of high-profile attackers. 

Mo Adams, who scored within two minutes of his club debut at Los Angeles FC, is going to be relied upon as a depth option at fullback with Brek Shea out injured for the rest of the season. 

Chicago Fire

Mar 1, 2016; Washington, DC; Queretaro defender Jonathan Bornstein possess the ball as D.C. United midfielder/forward Patrick Nyarko defends at RFK Stadium. (Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Jonathan Bornstein (from Maccabi Netanya), Micheal Azira (trade with Montreal)

Out: Mo Adams (traded to Atlanta), Jorge Corrales (trade with Montreal) 

Chicago brought in a few experienced pieces, one from abroad and another via intraleague trade. 

Jonathan Bornstein will provide more stability on the defensive flanks for a team that has struggled in that area of the field 

Azira is now with his fourth MLS team since debuting with the Sounders in 2014. His best seasons came in Colorado in 2016 and 2017, but he hasn’t been able to be a regular contributor for the Rapids and Montreal since then. 

FC Cincinnati 

Oct 28, 2018; Harrison, NJ; New York Red Bulls midfielder Derrick Etienne celebrates his goal during the second half against Orlando City at Red Bull Arena. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Maikel van der Werff (free transfer), Andrew Gutman (loan from Celtic, via rights trade with Chicago), Derrick Etienne (trade with New York Red Bulls), Joe Gyau (transfer from MSV Duisburg) 

Out: Kenny Saief (loan expiration), Forrest Lasso (loaned to Nashville SC), Emery Welshman (mutual parting), Eric Alexander (waived) 

FC Cincinnati is going to go through more roster overhaul during the offseason when new head coach Ron Jans has an opportunity to evaluate every piece in his hands. 

Andrew Gutman and Derrick Etienne are two young players who could make a difference right away and establish their spots for the 2020 season, while Maikel van der Werff comes with familiarity to Jans and general manager Gerard Nijkamp from their time at PEC Zwolle. 

Colorado Rapids

In: None

Out: Nana Boateng (mutual parting) 

Colorado held firm with its only major move being the parting of ways with Nana Boateng, who hadn’t played a single minute in 2019.

Columbus Crew

August 3, 2019; San Jose, CA, USA; Columbus Crew SC goalkeeper Eloy Room (1) during the first half against the San Jose Earthquakes at Avaya Stadium. (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Romario Williams (trade with Atlanta), Luis Diaz (transfer from Herediano), Eloy Room (free transfer), Jordan Hamilton (trade with Toronto), Youness Mokhtar (free transfer), Chris Cadden (free transfer) 

Out: Robinho (trade with Orlando), Patrick Mullins (trade with Toronto), Joe Bendik (trade with Philadelphia), Chris Cadden (loan to Oxford United), Niko Hansen (trade with Houston) 

Most of the Columbus Crew’s additions allowed them to make deals across the league, shipping Robinho, Patrick Mullins, Joe Bendik and Niko Hansen away. 

Eloy Room will make the biggest impact in the short term as Zack Steffen’s replacement. Counting on a Gold Cup standout to be the No. 1 goalkeeper could be seen as a risk by some, but the Crew are confident in the Curacao international.

Romario Williams and Jordan Hamilton are solid pieces to have on the bench and may benefit from a change of scenery. Luis Diaz has two assists in four appearances, but he only has one start and 176 minutes so far for Caleb Porter’s side. 

D.C. United

Apr 20, 2019; Orlando, FL; Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Felipe Martins handles the ball during the second half against the Orlando City at Orlando City Stadium. (Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Gordon Wild (free transfer), Felipe Martins (trade with Vancouver), Emmanuel Boateng (trade with LA Galaxy), Ola Kamara (transfer from Shenzhen FC) 

Out: Akeem Ward (waived), Zoltan Stieber (mutual parting), Chris McCann (mutual parting) 

Obviously, the biggest transfer news involving D.C. United is the departure at the end of the season of Wayne Rooney to Derby County. The Black-and-Red should be able to supplement Rooney’s scoring through Ola Kamara, who recorded three double-digit goal seasons with Columbus and the LA Galaxy before bolting for China. 

Emmanuel Boateng will give Ben Olsen’s side a boost in pace on the wing, while Felipe Martins covers for the injury losses in defensive midfield. 

FC Dallas

Jul 27, 2019; Frisco, TX, USA; FC Dallas midfielder Edwin Gyasi (7) in action during the game between FC Dallas and Real Salt Lake at Toyota Stadium. (Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Edwin Gyasi (loan from PFC CSKA Sofia) 

Out: Pablo Aránguiz (loaned to Club Unión Española S.A.D.P) 

One of FC Dallas’ top concerns is who will find the back of the net in the home stretch of the regular season. Edwin Gyasi should be able to provide more chances to Dominique Badji and Co., while generating a few scoring opportunities on his own. 

FC Dallas’ best acquisition mechanism is its academy, and some young players need to step up in the final few months to secure a playoff position. 

Houston Dynamo 

Jul 3, 2019; LAFC forward Christian Ramirez celebrates with Latif Blessing after scoring a goal against Sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park. (Peter G. Aiken/USA TODAY Sports)

In: Jose Bizama (transfer from Huachipato FC), Christian Ramirez (trade with LAFC)

Out: Chris Duvall (waived) 

Christian Ramirez was deemed as surplus behind Carlos Vela, Diego Rossi and Adama Diomande on the LAFC depth chart, and he will be a welcome addition to the Dynamo attack.

Ramirez scored 14 goals with Minnesota in 2017, and he should provide an extra dimension alongside Alberth Elis and Mauro Manotas. He also eventually could be the successor to those two players if they move on to Europe or Liga MX. 

Los Angeles FC

In: Brian Rodriguez (transfer from Club Atlético Peñarol) 

Out: Niko Hämäläinen (end of loan), Shaft Brewer Jr. (mutual parting), Christian Ramirez (trade with Houston) 

The rich got even richer at the end of the secondary window, with LAFC bringing in Brian Rodriguez. The 19-year-old followed the same path as Diego Rossi, who might be the next young star to head to Europe from MLS if the price is right. 

LA Galaxy

In: Cristian Pavon (loan from Boca Juniors) 

Out: Emmanuel Boateng (trade with D.C.) 

LA Galaxy worked the monetary tightrope to reunite Cristian Pavon with his former Boca Juniors manager Guillermo Barros Schelotto. How Schelotto unlocks Pavon’s potential in Los Angeles remains to be seen, but it is a coup for Dennis Te Kloese and Co. to get the deal done. 

Minnesota United 

Uruguay’s Thomas Chacon controls the ball during the Group C U-20 World Cup match between New Zealand and Uruguay, in Lodz, Poland, May 30, 2019. (AP Photo/Czarek Sokolowski)

In: Robin Lod (transfer from Real Sporting de Gijón S.A.D.), Wilfried Moimbe (free), Thomás Chacón (transfer from Danubio FC) 

Out: Eric Miller (traded to NYCFC) 

Minnesota United followed the trend of bringing young South American players to MLS with Wednesday’s announcement of 18-year-old Thomás Chacón. 

Robin Lod and Wilfried Moimbe should also be key pieces to Adrian Heath’s squad in its hunt to earn a home playoff game in the first year of Allianz Field. 

Montreal Impact

Jul 27, 2019; Montreal, Quebec; Montreal Impact midfield Lassi Lappalainen plays the ball against Philadelphia Union during the first half at Stade Saputo. (Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Lassi Lappalainen (loan from Bologna FC 1909), Bojan Krkić (free transfer), Jorge Corrales (trade with Chicago) 

Out: Harry Novillo (mutual parting), Micheal Azira (trade with Chicago) 

Bojan Krkić has bounced around Europe since leaving Barcelona in 2014. If the Impact get the best out of him, combined with the return to fitness of Ignacio Piatti, they could create some distance between themselves and the red-line competitors in the Eastern Conference.

Lassi Lappalainen already made an immediate impact on the squad with a pair of goals in his debut against Philadelphia.

New England Revolution

Jul 17, 2019; Foxborough, MA; New England Revolution forward Gustavo Bou reacts after scoring a goal against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Gillette Stadium. (Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Gustavo Bou (transfer from Club Tijuana) 

Out: Justin Rennicks (loaned to North Carolina FC); Isaac Angking (loan to Charlotte Independence)

Gustavo Bou scored in his first appearance for the New England Revolution, and he is expected to be a massive piece of the resurgence under coach Bruce Arena to finish in the top seven.

Due to Bou’s addition, United States U-20 forward Justin Rennicks was sent to USL Championship side North Carolina FC, who is coached by Dave Sarachan, a longtime Arena lieutenant. 

New York City FC

May 4, 2019; Saint Paul, MN; Minnesota United defender Eric Miller during a game between Minnesota United and Seattle Sounders at Allianz Field. (Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Gary Mackay-Steven (free transfer), Eric Miller (trade with Minnesota) 

Out: None 

Gary Mackay-Steven should provide coach Domence Torrent with some necessary wing depth, while Eric Miller is a valuable veteran asset to have in defense with a busy conclusion to the regular season ahead. 

But New York City FC’s best addition this season will turn out to be Héber, who joined in the primary window. 

New York Red Bulls 

Jan 7, 2019; Orlando, FL, USA; Indiana defender Rece Buckmaster (red vest) fights for the ball during the MLS combine at Orlando City SC Stadium. (Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Rece Buckmaster (signed from USL affiliate), Josh Sims (loan from Southampton) 

Out: Derrick Etienne (traded to FC Cincinnati), Marcus Epps (loan to Memphis 901) 

New York Red Bulls continued to benefit from their USL pipeline with the addition of Rece Buckmaster, and they also brought in Josh Sims from Southampton, but he is only here until the end of the season. 

Losing Etienne might not be that big of a deal in the long run for the Red Bulls if they continue to churn out young midfield and forward prospects. 

Orlando City 

Valencia’s Geoffrey Kondogbia, left, and FC Krasnodar’s Mauricio Pereyra challenge for the ball during a Europa League round of 16 match at the Krasnodar Stadium in Russia, March 14, 2019. (AP Photo/Vitaliy Timkiv)

In: Robinho (trade with Columbus), Mauricio Pereyra (free transfer) 

Out: None

The pressure is on coach James O’Connor to get the best out of Mauricio Pereyra with the team four points behind the Revs, who hold the final playoff spot in the East.

Orlando City has played well of late, and now that it does not have to focus on the U.S. Open Cup, it can put all of its assets toward achieving the club’s first postseason berth.

Philadelphia Union

(Courtesy of Philadelphia Union)

In: Andrew Wooten (free transfer), R.J. Allen (free transfer), Joe Bendik (trade with Columbus) 

Out: Carlos Miguel Coronel (loan termination) 

The Union filled their need at forward through Andrew Wooten, who performed well despite not scoring against D.C. United on Sunday. 

R.J. Allen and Joe Bendik were brought in solely as depth options and they have yet to see the field for Jim Curtin’s side. 

Portland Timbers

In: None

Out: Lucas Melano (mutual parting) 

Portland’s most important acquisition was Brian Fernandez in May. Parting ways with Lucas Melano made sense since he played less than 300 minutes in 2018 and 2019. 

Real Salt Lake 

May 29, 2019; Kansas City, KS, USA; Sporting Kansas City midfielder Kelyn Rowe (11) throws the ball in at Children’s Mercy Park. (Gary Rohman/MLS/USA TODAY Sports)

In: Kelyn Rowe (trade with Sporting KC) 

Out: Pablo Ruiz (loaned to Pinzgau Saalfelden) 

Real Salt Lake is taking a chance on Kelyn Rowe for the rest of the season before he becomes a free agent. Rowe was not able to make an impact during his time with Sporting Kansas City, and he has not been a significant contributor since he had a goal and seven assists in 2017 as a member of the Revs. 

San Jose Earthquakes

In: Carlos Fierro (transfer from Cruz Azul), Andrés Ríos (transfer from Racing Club de Avellaneda) 

Out: None 

Matias Almeyda brought in two more pieces to his squad that should keep the San Jose Earthquakes in contention for a home playoff spot. 

Even without Carlos Fierro and Andrés Ríos, the Quakes were on the path to the postseason, but adding the midfielder and forward, respectively, complements the depth already in place and makes the Quakes a legitimate top-four team. 

Seattle Sounders

In: Emanuel Cecchini (loan from Málaga CF), Luis Silva (signed from Hobro IK) 

Out: None

Seattle pulled off two deals before the window closed, and it received a significant boost with Brad Smith remaining with the club. 

Emanuel Cecchini should compete for minutes in central midfield and he could provide some valuable depth to the squad, while Luis Silva carries MLS experience and he could add scoring support off the bench.

Sporting Kansas City 

In: Cameron Duke (Homegrown), Luís Martins (free transfer) 

Out: Kelyn Rowe (traded to RSL)

Sporting Kansas City added left back Luís Martins to a defense that has already let in 41 goals in 23 games. 

In order to make the push for the playoffs, Peter Vermes’ side needs to clean up its defensive record. 

Toronto FC 

Jul 27, 2019; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC forward Patrick Mullins (13) battles for a ball with FC Cincinnati defender Kendall Waston (2) at BMO Field. (Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports)

In: Jacob Shaffelburg (Homegrown), Erickson Gallardo (transfer from Zamora FC), Patrick Mullins (trade with Columbus), Nicolas Benezet (loan from EA Guingamp) 

Out: Jordan Hamilton (traded to Columbus), Terrence Boyd (mutual parting) 

The biggest boost to Toronto FC’s playoff push is the return of Jozy Altidore to the lineup. 

Of the new additions, Jacob Shaffelburg has made the most significant impact in a small timespan, but just like the other clubs that made upgrades, the Reds need their new depth to contribute in order to reach the top seven.

Vancouver Whitecaps

In: Michaell Chirinos (loan from Olimpia); Tosaint Ricketts (signed from FK Sūduva)

Out: Lucas Venuto (mutual parting); Chituru Odunze (transfer to Leicester City)

One player is not going to turn around Vancouver’s season. 

Michaell Chirinos is a nice piece to add to the club’s attacking unit, but the Whitecaps need more than just one addition to move out of the Western Conference basement.

The post Recapping the secondary transfer window for all MLS teams appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

John Harkes says his son is among the players to have benefited from Wayne Rooney’s natural “coaching instinct” long before the England legend gets to work on the training ground at Derby County. England’s leading all-time goalscorer this week agreed to cut short his spell with DC United and join ambitious Championship side Derby as […]

The post Rooney´s coaching skills evident from day one at DC – Harkes appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Rooney´s coaching skills evident from day one at DC – Harkes appeared first on Soccer News.

Competition: MLS Market: San Jose win Odds: 13/10 @ Bet 365 With the chance to climb as high as second in the Western Conference, San Jose will travel to Colorado in the early hours of Sunday. Starting with the hosts, despite picking up a dramatic 6-3 win at home to Montreal last time out, Colorado still find themselves […]

The post San Jose 13/10 to beat Colorado Rapids in Sunday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

The post San Jose 13/10 to beat Colorado Rapids in Sunday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

Competition: MLS Market: Columbus Crew win Odds: 1/2 @ Bet 365 In a real battle at the foot of the Eastern Conference, a resurgent Columbus Crew will welcome FC Cincinnati to Ohio in the early hours of Sunday. Starting with the hosts, although Columbus Crew might still sit some way off the play-off positions in the Eastern Conference, […]

The post Columbus Crew 1/2 to beat FC Cincinnati in Sunday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Columbus Crew 1/2 to beat FC Cincinnati in Sunday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

Los Angeles Galaxy want to truly compete with the elite of Major League Soccer! In fact, LA Galaxy are the elite of the league that has fallen off in the last two years and now they want to chase another MLS Cup win. The evidence of that is present in the name of Cristian Pavon, […]

The post La Galaxy confirm Cristian Pavon signing appeared first on Soccer News.

The post La Galaxy confirm Cristian Pavon signing appeared first on Soccer News.

Valentin Castellanos was the hero as New York City claimed a last-gasp 3-2 victory against 10-man Houston Dynamo in MLS. Substitute Castellanos scored a late second-half brace, including the dramatic 93rd-minute winner on Thursday. After equalising with seven minutes of regulation remaining, Castellanos smashed home his own rebound in the third minute of stoppage time. […]

The post New York City 3-2 Houston Dynamo: Castellanos scores 93rd-minute winner appeared first on Soccer News.

The post New York City 3-2 Houston Dynamo: Castellanos scores 93rd-minute winner appeared first on Soccer News.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is not a fan of the MLS play-offs as the LA Galaxy captain labelled the system “s***”. Unlike Europe, where Ibrahimovic has played for the likes of Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, Inter, AC Milan and Juventus, MLS uses a play-off system to crown a champion. The top seven teams from the Western […]

The post Ibrahimovic says MLS play-offs are ´s***´ appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Ibrahimovic says MLS play-offs are ´s***´ appeared first on Soccer News.

LA Galaxy have confirmed the loan signing of Argentina winger Cristian Pavon from Boca Juniors. Pavon, who made four appearances at last year’s World Cup, completed his switch to the Galaxy before Wednesday’s MLS deadline, with the transfer confirmed the following day. The 23-year-old’s temporary deal through to the end of the 2019 season will […]

The post Galaxy seal Pavon loan ahead of potential record MLS deal appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Galaxy seal Pavon loan ahead of potential record MLS deal appeared first on Soccer News.

Competition: MLS Market: Over 2.5 goals Odds: 8/13 @ Bet 365 In what could be set to be an extremely lively encounter, NYCFC will welcome a struggling Houston Dynamo to Yankee Stadium on Friday. Starting with the hosts, despite taking a 1-0 lead at half-time against Real Salt Lake over the weekend, a woeful second-half display saw NYCFC […]

The post Over 2.5 goals at New York City FC vs Houston Dynamo 8/13 for Friday’s MLS clash appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Over 2.5 goals at New York City FC vs Houston Dynamo 8/13 for Friday’s MLS clash appeared first on Soccer News.

Nobody likes the status quo in power rankings, unless you are a fan of the team in the No. 1 spot. Los Angeles Football Club have been in the penthouse for much of the season and remains there again following Week 22.

But there is plenty of movement in the Pro Soccer USA MLS Power Rankings. In fact, LAFC are one of just three teams — FC Dallas at No. 13 and Toronto FC at No. 15 — to remain in the same spot they were a week ago.

The Philadelphia Union moved up five spots following a 5-1 victory over D.C. United at Audi Field, a result that dropped the hosts five places. Atlanta United moved back into the top five after a convincing 3-0 victory over the LA Galaxy, as did Minnesota United, which advanced six places after a 1-0 home win over the Portland Timbers. 

The Major League Soccer Power Rankings are created by averaging the rankings submitted by a committee of Pro Soccer USA’s editors and writers.

Pro Soccer USA writers Dylan Butler, Marco Cummings, Chris Fuhrmeister, Robert Jonas, Mitchell Northam, Emily Olsen and Joe Tansey contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 22: Philadelphia Union, Minnesota United move into top 5 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

DC United completed the signing of Ola Kamara, among other deals, after agreeing to allow captain Wayne Rooney to join Derby County in January. Rooney will leave MLS to become a player-coach at Championship club Derby next year, with the move announced on Tuesday. But DC, already thought to be keen to make moves in […]

The post DC make moves following Rooney deal, Bojan joins Montreal appeared first on Soccer News.

The post DC make moves following Rooney deal, Bojan joins Montreal appeared first on Soccer News.

DC United completed the signing of Ola Kamara, among other deals, after agreeing to allow captain Wayne Rooney to join Derby County in January. Rooney will leave MLS to become a player-coach at Championship club Derby next year, with the move announced on Tuesday. But DC, already thought to be keen to make moves in […]

The post DC make moves following Rooney deal, Bojan joins Montreal appeared first on Soccer News.

The post DC make moves following Rooney deal, Bojan joins Montreal appeared first on Soccer News.

It is hard for a player to crack the top 10 of the Pro Soccer USA Major League Soccer Player Rankings if they were not ranked the week prior. 

That trend has been bucked in a major way after Week 22, with Marco Fabian of the Philadelphia Union and Colorado Rapids forward Kei Kamara both bursting into the top half of the rankings.

The duo headline a collection of six new entrants to the list of the top 20 in-form players across MLS. 

At the top, the battle between Carlos Vela and Josef Martinez wages on, while Los Angeles FC once again placed three of its stars in the top 10.

The Pro Soccer USA MLS Player Rankings are determined by a player’s form over the last four games, with the most recent showing carrying a bit more weight. 

20. Julian Gressel, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: 13 

Julian Gressel directs a teammate during Atlanta United’s 3-2 loss to Toronto FC at BMO Field in Toronto on June 26, 2019. (Steve Kingsman-Atlanta United)

Julian Gressel failed to extend his points streak to four games in Atlanta United’s 3-0 win over the LA Galaxy Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

 The German midfielder handed out four key passes in the victory while completing 76.7 percent of his passes.

19. Brian White, F, New York Red Bulls

Previous Ranking: 11

Jul 27, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls forward Brian White (42) plays the ball against Columbus Crew SC defender Aboubacar Keita (30) during the first half at Red Bull Arena. (Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports)

Brian White could not manage a shot on target in the New York Red Bulls 2-0 win over Toronto FC, ending his second two-game scoring streak of the 2019 campaign. 

White opened August with an 82-minute shift in the victory that moved Chris Armas’ side up to third place in the Eastern Conference. 

Three of White’s last five tallies have come on the road, and he will try to add to that total in Week 23 at Banc of California Stadium against Los Angeles FC.

18. Gustavo Bou, F, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: 9

Jul 17, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution forward Gustavo Bou (7) reacts after scoring a goal during the first half against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Gillette Stadium. (Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports)

Gustavo Bou and the New England Revolution failed to make a statement at home Saturday against LAFC. 

In the 2-0 defeat, the 29-year-old Argentinian didn’t take a single shot over 90 minutes against the defensive unit led by Walker Zimmerman. 

It was the first time Bou did not contribute to a goal since joining the club a few weeks ago.

17. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, F, LA Galaxy

Previous Ranking: 5 

May 11, 2019; Carson, CA, USA; Los Angeles Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (9) moves in for a shot on goal against New York City during the second half at StubHub Center. (Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports)

In the last month, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has scored three goals, all in the El Trafico triumph over LAFC. 

That performance was sandwiched between a shotless showing against San Jose and an outing vs. Portland that led to a yellow-card accumulation suspension for Week 22. 

The Swede should be back on the field Sunday for the Galaxy’s nationally-televised clash with D.C. United at Audi Field. 

16. Alexander Ring, M, New York City FC

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Aug 3, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; New York City midfielder Alexander Ring (8) and Real Salt Lake midfielder Kyle Beckerman (5) go for the ball in the second half at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

Like Portland’s Diego Chara, New York City FC’s Alexander Ring does not receive as much credit for his performances week in and week out that he deserves. 

The NYCFC captain, who is a relentless worker in the middle of the park, scored for the second game in a row Saturday against Real Salt Lake. 

In addition to being a defensive stalwart, the Finnish midfielder has two goals and two assists in his last 180 minutes. 

15. Ike Opara, D, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Mar 30, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; Minnesota United defender Ike Opara (3) during the first half against the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium. (Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports)

Ike Opara returns to the list after Minnesota United climbed up to second place in the Western Conference in Week 22. 

The Loons defense limited the chances provided to Portland’s Brian Fernandez by holding the big-money signing to a pair of attempts on target. 

Opara has anchored a defensive unit that has held opponents to one goal in the last four contests. 

14. Jefferson Savarino, F, Real Salt Lake

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Aug 3, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Real Salt Lake forward Jefferson Savarino (7) takes a shot against New York City defender Ronald Matarrita (22) in the first half at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

Jefferson Savarino has had his way with Eastern Conference defenses at Rio Tinto Stadium in the last month. 

After scoring twice and assisting on another strike on July 13 against the Union, the 22-year-old Venezuelan provided a tally and a handout in the 3-1 win over NYCFC Saturday. 

With his next goal, Savarino will have 20 goals and 20 assists in three season with the Claret-and-Cobalt. 

13. Jordan Morris, F, Seattle Sounders

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jul 27, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Seattle Sounders forward Jordan Morris (13) controls the ball as Houston Dynamo midfielder Tomas Martinez (10) defends during the second half at BBVA Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

Jordan Morris is rounding into form at the perfect time for the Seattle Sounders. 

The U.S. Men’s National Team forward netted his second brace of 2019 in his club’s 3-2 loss to Sporting Kansas City Sunday.

Although the Sounders did not win on home turf in Week 22, Morris’ three strikes in two games is a positive development for a team in the thick of the race for a home playoff game in the West beneath LAFC.

12. Magnus Eriksson, F, San Jose Earthquakes

Previous Ranking: 15 

August 3, 2019; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Magnus Eriksson (7) during the first half against the Columbus Crew SC at Avaya Stadium. (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports)

Magnus Eriksson bagged the lone San Jose goal in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with the Columbus Crew. 

The 29-year-old Swede has contributed to a strike in each of the last three Earthquakes games, with two goals and one assist. 

Eriksson and the Quakes head to Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Week 23 to take on a Colorado Rapids team he picked up an assist against July 27.

11. Adama Diomande, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 10 

Jul 12, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Adama Diomande (99) controls the ball during the first half against the Houston Dynamo at BBVA Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

Adama Diomande took a back seat to the other forwards in the LAFC lineup in Saturday’s victory at Gillette Stadium.

The Norwegian striker didn’t place a shot on target in 79 minutes against the Revolution after picking up a goal and an assist vs. Atlanta in Week 21. 

10. Heber, F, New York City FC

Previous Ranking: 8 

Jun 6, 2019; New York, NY, USA; New York City FC forward Heber (9) celebrates his goal against FC Cincinnati during the first half at Yankee Stadium. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)

Heber’s five-game scoring streak that dated back to June 1 came to a halt at Rio Tinto Stadium.

The Brazilian forward put two shots on target in his attempt to bag the 10th goal of his inaugural MLS campaign. 

The 27-year-old will have plenty of opportunities throughout August to bolster his scoring total, starting Thursday at home against a struggling Houston side. 

9. Eduard Atuesta, M, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 17 

Apr 21, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles FC midfielder Eduard Atuesta (20) celebrates his goal during the first half against the Seattle Sounders FC at Banc of California Stadium. (Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports)

Eduard Atuesta continued his remarkable season in the middle of the field with 124 touches, three key passes and an 84.7 percent pass-completion percentage against the Revs.

The 22-year-old Colombian also made five tackles and three clearances in his club’s seventh shutout in league play. 

8. Vako, M, San Jose Earthquakes

Previous Ranking: 4

Jun 29, 2019; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Vako Kazaishvili (11) celebrates after a win against the LA Galaxy at Stanford Stadium. (Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports)

Despite not finding the back of the net Saturday night, Vako was still an active participant in the Quakes attack. 

The Republic of Georgia international rattled off a pair of shots on target and dished out two key passes against the Crew. 

In his last four matches, the scorer of seven goals has put at least two attempts on the opposing net. 

7. Jozy Altidore, F, Toronto FC 

Previous Ranking: 6 

Apr 19, 2019; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC forward Jozy Altidore (17) plays the ball against Minnesota United in the second half at BMO Field. (Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports)

Jozy Altidore’s quest to score in five consecutive games came up short in Toronto FC’s defeat to the Red Bulls. 

In fact, the USMNT forward was unable to fire a single shot at the Red Bulls net against a defense led by international teammate Aaron Long. He was ruled offside on his own shot that eluded Luis Robles.

Altidore and Toronto FC return to league play Saturday against an Orlando City team that will also be dealing with short rest. TFC plays in the Canadian Championship Wednesday, while the Lions took on Atlanta Tuesday in the U.S. Open Cup.

6. Kei Kamara, F, Colorado Rapids

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Aug 3, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Colorado Rapids forward Kei Kamara (23) scores on a penalty kick during the first half against the Montreal Impact at Dicks Sporting Goods Park. (Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports)

Kei Kamara moved into double digits in the scoring column for the third straight season by way of a Saturday hat trick against Montreal.

The Sierra Leone international has hit the 10-goal mark with three different clubs in the last three years. 

In total, Kamara has six double-digit scoring seasons with five clubs (Sporting Kansas City/Kansas City Wizards, New England, Vancouver, Columbus, Colorado) 

5. Marco Fabian, M, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jun 2, 2019; Saint Paul , MN, USA; Philadelphia Union forward Marco Fabian (10) carries the ball during the second half against Minnesota United at Allianz Field. (Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports)

Marco Fabian turned in his best performance in a Philadelphia Union shirt at the perfect time for the first-place side in the East.

The Mexican midfielder scored his first brace in MLS, handed out six key passes and sent five of his six attempts on goal. 

Fabian has scored three times in his last five contests after finding the back of the net on three occurrences in his first 10 matches. 

4. Carles Gil, M, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: 3

Jul 17, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution forward Carles Gil (22) reacts after a goal during the second half against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC at Gillette Stadium. (Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports)

 Carles Gil had a rare off night in the Revolution midfield against LAFC by producing a single shot on target and zero key passes. 

The Revs were held to one attempt on goal in the 2-0 defeat that ended their 11-game unbeaten run in league play. 

The top team in the league ended a run of three straight games with a goal and an assist from the 26-year-old Spaniard. 

3. Diego Rossi, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 7

Aug 3, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Diego Rossi (9) celebrates with defender Jordan Harvey (2) and forward Latif Blessing (7) after scoring against the New England Revolution during the first half at Gillette Stadium. (Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports)

Diego Rossi was one of the few players listed in the top 10 last week to scorch the back of the goal in Week 22. 

The Uruguayan deposited his 13th tally of the season in LAFC’s victory that cooled down the red-hot Revs. 

In 55 MLS games, Rossi has 25 goals and 14 assists. 

2. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 1

Jul 3, 2019; Kansas City, KS, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Carlos Vela (10) dribbles the ball against Sporting Kansas City defender Seth Sinovic (15) during the second half at Children’s Mercy Park. (Peter G. Aiken/USA TODAY Sports)

For just the sixth time in 2019, Carlos Vela failed to score in a game in which he started.

That means he has scored in 16 of his 22 starts, a remarkable run that is one of the many reasons why LAFC sits atop the West and Supporters’ Shield standings. 

Vela was still an active part of LAFC’s attack in Week 22 by putting four of his seven shots on goal and handing out a quartet of key passes.

1. Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: 2

Aug 3, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) reacts after scoring a goal on a penalty kick against Los Angeles Galaxy during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports)

Josef Martinez moved within four goals of Vela in the Golden Boot race with his tally against LA Galaxy Saturday. 

With his 18th tally of 2019, the Venezuelan tied the MLS mark for longest consecutive scoring run at nine games, a point he hit a year ago as well. 

Martinez will try to become the first player in league history to hit the back of the goal on 10 straight occasions Sunday against NYCFC. 

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