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Atlanta United made it five straight wins in MLS on Wednesday, while the Seattle Sounders closed the gap atop the Western Conference. Frank de Boer’s Atlanta have found form and recorded a 1-0 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps at BC Place Stadium. Josef Martinez’s first-half penalty was all they needed to stretch their winning run […]

The post MLS Review: Atlanta extend winning streak, Sounders hold on appeared first on Soccer News.

The post MLS Review: Atlanta extend winning streak, Sounders hold on appeared first on Soccer News.

Competition: MLS Market: Los Angeles FC win and over 1.5 goals Odds: 8/13 @ Bet 365 Looking to continue what has become a stellar start to the new MLS campaign, a high-flying LAFC will welcome Dallas to Banc of California Stadium in the early hours of Friday morning. Starting with the hosts, coming off the back of another […]

The post Los Angeles FC 8/13 to beat FC Dallas and over 1.5 goals in Friday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Los Angeles FC 8/13 to beat FC Dallas and over 1.5 goals in Friday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

Competition: MLS Market: DC United draw no bet Odds: 12/5 @ Bet 365 Looking to leapfrog Philadelphia to top spot in the Eastern Conference, DC United will travel to a struggling Toronto in the early hours of Thursday morning. Starting with the hosts, after having to settle for a place outside of the playoffs last season, it has […]

The post DC United 12/5 for draw no bet against Toronto FC in Thursday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

The post DC United 12/5 for draw no bet against Toronto FC in Thursday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

New York City FC might be the sister club, but it’s Los Angeles Football Club are the Manchester City of MLS. At least that’s what Columbus Crew SC coach Caleb Porter thinks after his team fell to Bob Bradley’s side 3-0 at home Saturday night.

And like Man City, LAFC are top of the table, and top of the Pro Soccer USA MLS Power Rankings after Week 11 of the season.

After back-to-back wins for the first time in two years, the Chicago Fire are the biggest upward movers, rising up seven spots to No. 12, while FC Dallas plummeted eight rungs following consecutive losses.

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 and Emily Olsen contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 11: ‘Manchester City of MLS’ remain on top appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

For the second consecutive week, the top spot in the Pro Soccer USA Major League Soccer Player Rankings has changed hands.

Although there are plenty of fresh faces climbing up the list, this week’s top in-form star is someone who is more than familiar with occupying the top position. 

Los Angeles FC’s Carlos Vela eclipsed LA Galaxy’s Zlatan Ibrahimovic after Week 11’s games in which LAFC extended its lead atop the Western Conference over its crosstown rival. 

A handful of players impressed over two games in Week 11, with a pair of players from the Chicago Fire standing out the most. 

In addition to the two new entrants from the Fire, five more players moved into the ranking of the 20 best in-form players in MLS, including one from the defending MLS Cup champion and one each from the two best in-form sides in the Eastern Conference. 

Our ranking of the 20 best in-form players in MLS takes into account form over the last four games, with the most recent performance holding more value. 

20. Aleksandar Katai, M, Chicago Fire

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Aleksandar Katai played a role in three of the Fire’s seven goals in Week 11. 

The Serbian winger chipped in a pair of assists in Wednesday’s 5-0 win over New England that marked the end of the Brad Friedel era with the Revolution. 

Katai netted the second goal of his side’s 2-0 victory over Minnesota United on Saturday, a game in which he put four of his eight shots on target. 

Documents
└ 2019 Tactics
└ Defending Katai 1v1
└ This folder is empty pic.twitter.com/fWMk9jgreH

— Chicago Fire (@ChicagoFire) May 14, 2019

The pair of victories boosted Chicago’s home mark to 4-1-2 and moved it one position out of the playoff places in the Eastern Conference.

19. Jamiro Monteiro, M, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jamiro Monteiro is one of many unsung heroes who have starred during the Philadelphia Union’s three-game winning streak. 

The on-loan midfielder from Ligue 2 side Metz handed Jim Curtin’s side a statement victory at BMO Field by finding the back of the net in the 68th minute. 

Give and go-go-go!

Kacper didn't score but he set up Jamiro for a gamewinner too spicy for your average poutine.#DOOP | #FirstPlaceFinishing pic.twitter.com/UnGrAlYVsP

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) May 12, 2019

Monteiro has also turned into a menace in the midfield with his quick play on the ball and recovery skill. 

The midfielder’s loan was originally for four months, but the Union have made it clear they have the option to extend his loan for the rest of the season and intend to do so in June. 

18. Heber, F, New York City FC 

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Heber continues to find the back of the net for one of the hottest teams in MLS.

The Brazilian forward struck for his third goal of the season in Saturday’s 2-0 win over the LA Galaxy.

Three in five starts for the number 9⃣ @Heber__Araujo #NYCFC pic.twitter.com/ytRW9WwRuv

— New York City FC (@NYCFC) May 11, 2019

As we have noted in this space before, no one is going to replicate the impact David Villa had on the New York City FC attack, but Heber seems to have softened the blow in the final third by scoring three times in five starts.

17. Cristian Roldan, M, Seattle Sounders

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Cristian Roldan hammered home an absolutely stunning goal for the second straight week in Seattle’s 1-0 win over Houston at home on Saturday. 

2⃣ weeks in a row @CristianRoldan is unreal

Vote Roldan for GOTW https://t.co/Apd6epgCS8 pic.twitter.com/ZhVu4KYVJ5

— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) May 14, 2019

In addition to scoring beautiful goals in back-to-back weeks, Roldan helped the Sounders hold the Dynamo attack to one shot on target at CenturyLink Field in Week 11. 

Roldan made a pair of tackles and clearances and completed 89.2 percent of his 65 passes in Seattle’s fifth home win of 2019. 

16. Diego Valeri, M, Portland Timbers

Previous Ranking: 11

May 10, 2019; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Whitecaps defender Doneil Henry (2) goes for the ball against Portland Timbers midfielder Diego Valeri (8) during the first half at BC Place. (Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports)

Diego Valeri and the Portland Timbers weren’t able to extend their winning streak to four games, but the Argentinian tried his hardest to help his side find the back of the net on Friday in Vancouver. 

The 33-year-old handed out nine key passes and put one of his two shots on target in the 1-0 defeat to his team’s Cascadia Cup rival.

Valeri and Co. have two road games left before they open the newly-renovated Providence Park on June 1. The first of those two matches takes place Wednesday in Houston. 

15. Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, D, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Apr 27, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United defender Leandro Gonzalez Pirez (5) controls the ball against the Colorado Rapids in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)

Leandro Gonzalez Pirez and the Atlanta United defense have recorded four clean sheets in a row during the club’s four-game winning streak. 

On Wednesday against Toronto FC, the Five Stripes held Greg Vanney’s side without a shot on goal. 

In Sunday’s win over Orlando City, Frank de Boer’s side limited the Lions to four shots on target at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Gonzalez Pirez totaled five tackles, three interceptions and two clearances over 180 minutes in Week 11.

14. Fredy Montero, F, Vancouver Whitecaps

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

All Fredy Montero has ever done in MLS is score goals. 

The Colombian has started to round into form during Vancouver’s recent good run of results in which it has seven points from three games. 

The Timbers killer.@_fredymontero opens the scoring.

VAN 1-0 POR | #VWFC pic.twitter.com/jXz11LJkPM

— Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC) May 11, 2019

Montero, who has scored over 10 goals in each of his five MLS seasons, struck the back of the net for the second straight game in Friday’s 1-0 win over the Timbers.

13. Nicolas Gaitan, M, Chicago Fire

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Nicolas Gaitan proved how valuable he can be to the Fire in Week 11 by providing two goals and two assists. 

The best goal of the four Gaitan played a role in came on a blistering counterattack against Minnesota United on Saturday.

Counter-attacks don't get any better.@nicogaitan finishes off the break! #CHIvMIN https://t.co/rRmH7DSPXS

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 12, 2019

Wednesday’s two-assist performance from the 31-year-old was his second in nine games for the Fire. 

12. Kei Kamara, F, Colorado Rapids

Previous Ranking: 7

May 11, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Real Salt Lake midfielder Damir Kreilach (8) and Colorado Rapids forward Kei Kamara (23) battle for the ball in the second half at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. (Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports)

After scoring twice from the spot in Week 10, Kei Kamara missed a penalty kick in Colorado’s 3-2 defeat to Real Salt Lake on Saturday. 

Kamara put multiple shots on goal for the sixth time this season, but he was unable to help the Rapids earn their first win of the season. 

The first victory for the Rapids might not come in Week 12 with a trip to the LA Galaxy ahead on Sunday. 

11. Alberth Elis, F, Houston Dynamo

Previous Ranking: 4 

May 11, 2019; Seattle, WA, USA; Houston Dynamo forward Alberth Elis (17) dribbles against the Seattle Sounders FC during the first half at CenturyLink Field. (Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports)

Alberth Elis was held without a goal or an assist for the first time since Week 1 in the Dynamo’s 1-0 loss to the Sounders. 

Elis won a pair of aerial duels and put one shot on target at CenturyLink Field, but he was unable to deliver a key pass on the right flank against Seattle left back Brad Smith. 

10. Nani, M, Orlando City SC

Previous Ranking: 3

Apr 27, 2019; New York, NY, USA; Orlando City forward Nani (17) during the second half against the New York City FC at Yankee Stadium. (Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports)

Nani sat out Orlando City’s defeat to Atlanta United with a calf injury.

The Portuguese midfielder was listed as day-to-day, but it may be hard for him to get ready for Wednesday’s trip to Seattle to face the Sounders. 

The owner of five goals and four assists would be better suited to square off against FC Cincinnati on Sunday in a game the Lions should win at home.

9. Mark-Anthony Kaye, M, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 17 

Mark-Anthony Kaye netted his third goal of the campaign in Los Angeles FC’s 3-0 road win over the Columbus Crew. 

The Canadian midfielder made a nice run into space on the right side of the box and slotted home the strike with his first touch. 

#LAFC jump in front!@MarkThEwizz tucks it away. #CLBvLAFC https://t.co/IMFGv9jBXY

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 12, 2019

Kaye was one of three LAFC players to put two shots on goal at MAPFRE Stadium and he came in second behind Eduard Atuesta on the list of most touches with 82. 

8. Jack Elliott, D, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: 9 

Apr 27, 2019; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Philadelphia Union defender Jack Elliott (3) challenges Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Russell Teibert (31) during the first half at BC Place.(Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports)

The lone goal conceded by the Union back line in Toronto came on a beautiful free kick off the boot of Alejandro Pozuelo.

Outside of the set-piece strike, Jack Elliott and his teammates defended well against one of the top attacks in MLS. 

Elliott made six clearances and blocked a shot while holding the TFC attack to four shots on goal.

7. Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: 10 

May 12, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez (7) kicks the ball out of his defensive end of the field against Orlando City during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports)

Part of Atlanta United’s resurgence can be tied to the form of Josef Martinez.

After scoring twice in Week 10, the defending Golden Boot winner picked up a pair of assists in Wednesday’s victory over Toronto FC. 

In the last three games, Martinez has recorded two of his four goals and both of his assists for the 2019 campaign.

6. Sam Johnson, F, Real Salt Lake

Previous Ranking: 14 

Sam Johnson is the most in-form player in MLS that you are unaware of.

The striker has turned into a consistent force in front of the net for Real Salt Lake with four goals in his last five games.

Sam Johnson! 4 goals in 5 games @realsaltlake back up top, 2-3 in the #RockyMountainCup pic.twitter.com/haXRwuYFCi

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 12, 2019

None of Johnson’s tallies have been incredibly flashy, like the goals delivered by the league’s superstars, but he has to be commended for his ability to continuously finish past opposing goalkeepers. 

5. Kacper Przybylko, F, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: 8 

May 4, 2019; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Union forward Kacper Przybylko (23) heads the ball past New England Revolution defender Michael Mancienne (28) during the second half at Talen Energy Stadium. (Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports)

Kacper Przybylko failed to score in Week 11, but he still played an important role in a goal for the Union.

The German-born Polish forward delivered a perfect assist to Monteiro on the Union’s game-winning goal at BMO Field. 

Przybylko has been one of the most accurate forwards in MLS over the last month by putting 11 of his 16 shots on target.

4. Eduard Atuesta, M, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: 6

May 4, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; LAFC midfielder Eduard Atuesta (20) moves the ball against the Chicago Fire in the second half at Banc of California Stadium. The team played to a 0-0 tie. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)

Eduard Atuesta continued his strong season with a commanding midfield performance against Columbus. 

Atuesta was once again the most active LAFC player on the ball with 91 touches and he completed 87.3 percent of his 71 passes.

In 12 games, Atuesta has a pass-completion rate of 87.7 on an average of 85.8 passes. Atuesta is tied with Toronto FC’s Michael Bradley for the highest average of passes per game. 

3. Alejandro Pozuelo, M, Toronto FC 

Previous Ranking: 5

Pozuelo delivered one of the few bright spots in Toronto FC’s loss to Philadelphia on a 51st-minute free kick.

There he goes again!@Pozuelo_10 with the perfectly-placed free kick. #TORvPHI https://t.co/7Hwk9amRAg

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 11, 2019

The goal was the fifth in eight games for the Spaniard, who broke a scoring drought of three games. 

Pozuelo should have plenty of opportunities to add to his scoring total in Week 12 with two matches against D.C. United and Real Salt Lake. 

2. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, F, LA Galaxy

Previous Ranking: 1

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)

Ibrahimovic put his name in the headlines once again in Week 11, but it wasn’t because of a goal he scored. 

The Swedish superstar, who failed to score in two Week 11 games, was in the middle of controversy after he was only handed a yellow card for putting his hands to the face of NYCFC goalkeeper Sean Johnson.

Week 11 marked the first time since August in which Ibrahimovic failed to strike the back of the net in consecutive games.

1. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: 2 

Vela created a little more separation for himself atop the Golden Boot race with his 12th goal of the season on Saturday night. 

The Mexican glided past a few defenders on the right wing before he fired into the back of the net from distance.

That magical left foot…

Vote @11carlosV's long-range strike for @MLS Goal of the Week

https://t.co/UkWJkR4fGs pic.twitter.com/ffRdhESiSD

— LAFC (@LAFC) May 13, 2019

Vela heads into Week 12 with a three-goal advantage over Ibrahimovic in the Golden Boot race and a five-goal lead over Kamara.

The post MLS Player Rankings Week 11: Vela overtakes Ibrahimovic, Fire pair debut after impressive week appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Former United States national team boss Bruce Arena has returned to MLS as the new head coach and sporting director of the New England Revolution. The struggling Eastern Conference side announced the move on Tuesday, less than a week after removing Brad Friedel from the head coaching position and hours after dismissing general manager Michael […]

The post Arena returns to MLS in dual Revolution role appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Arena returns to MLS in dual Revolution role appeared first on Soccer News.

Major League Soccer is heating up. As most European leagues are slowly getting done, MLS are just getting closer to the middle of the campaign. And that means that the summer ahead will be filled with action, but that action already came to New England. The Revs have started poorly this campaign and head coach […]

The post Bruce Arena expected to take over New England Revolution appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Bruce Arena expected to take over New England Revolution appeared first on Soccer News.

New York City FC and the Philadelphia Union are the two most in-form teams in Major League Soccer. 

The pair of Eastern Conference sides reaffirmed their recent play by picking up victories on the road against two of MLS’ elite clubs on Saturday. 

Jim Curtin’s Union, who sit on top of the East table with 23 points, went into BMO Field and knocked off a Toronto FC side that they historically have had trouble playing against. 

The Union were the aggressor for stretches of the match and they continued to put a relentless amount of efforts on target. 

During their three-game winning streak, the Union have put 28 of their 48 shots on target, with Kacper Przybylko leading the charge with eight of his 12 shots going on goal. 

NYCFC pulled off the rare achievement of shutting out Zlatan Ibrahimovic and the LA Galaxy at Dignity Health Sports Park. 

Domenec Torrent’s men held the Galaxy to a single shot on target over 90 minutes and took the most of their chances at the end of the first half through goals by Heber and Maxi Moralez. 

NYCFC is now on a seven-game unbeaten streak and it has won four of its last five contests. In fact, NYCFC only has one loss that was suffered on March 29 at the hands of Toronto FC. 

The Union are exceeding all expectations set for themselves and now they have favorable three-game home stretch against Western Conference teams in which they can extend their great form into June.

May 11, 2019; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Philadelphia Union midfielder Jamiro Monteiro (35) is lifted in the air as he celebrates a goal during the second half against Toronto FC at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports

NYCFC has to wait until May 25 to extend its unbeaten run to eight games and its streak could get to as high as 11 by the time the Concacaf Gold Cup break hits. 

The Union and NYCFC were two of five teams to pick up road wins on Saturday. 

The New York Red Bulls rebounded from a baffling home loss to Montreal on Wednesday by beating FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium, Los Angeles FC went into Columbus and blanked the Crew and Real Salt Lake came out on top of a topsy-turvy affair with the Colorado Rapids. 

The success of the five road teams was one of many storylines to come out of an action-packed Week 11, which also included another rivalry win for Atlanta United and a controversial moment involving one of the league’s superstars.

Goals of the Week 

Cristian Roldan, Seattle Sounders

More like Cristian RolDAMN. 

Strikes don't get much sweeter than this, @CristianRoldan! #SEAvHOU https://t.co/EzZPCu3n9K

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 12, 2019

Nicolas Gaitan, Chicago Fire

One of the best counterattacks you will see all season in MLS. 

Everyone please sit down. Counterattacking 101 is now in session. #CHIvMIN #cf97 https://t.co/ZJGK8k33J5

— Chicago Fire (@ChicagoFire) May 12, 2019

Pity Martinez, Atlanta United

Martinez scored his first goal for the Five Stripes in a rivalry game.

What a way to score your first goal!

Pity Martinez gives @ATLUTD the lead. #ATLvORL https://t.co/H8WQgBtXFQ

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 12, 2019

Superstar Treatment? 

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is normally front and center in the spotlight after an MLS weekend for an amazing goal or assist. 

After Saturday’s game against NYCFC, all anyone wanted to talk about was the possible preferential treatment he received for staying on the field after putting his hands to the face of Sean Johnson. 

A bizarre incident in MLS involving Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Sean Johnson.

The result? A yellow card each. pic.twitter.com/sPoIeGfSG9

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) May 12, 2019

Plenty of players have been sent off for hands to the face in the past, and it begs the question if Ibrahimovic received a bit of superstar treatment and stayed on the field. 

Regardless of what your thoughts are on the matter, the refereeing still needs to be more consistent across the league. 

Helpful Tool For VAR 

MLS video review now has its own Twitter account to explain plays that go to VAR.

It is a useful tool that should have been implemented from the start of the VAR process. 

When reviews occur, fans, players and coaches usually ask for more clarification, even if the ruling is announced inside the stadium. 

This a helpful next step for transparency in a process we are all still getting used to.

Rocky Mountain Cup: Emphasis on the Rocky

May 11, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Colorado Rapids midfielder Sam Nicholson (28) on the pitch following the loss to Real Salt Lake at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The Colorado Rapids are still the only team in MLS without a victory. 

The Rapids gave up a pair of first-half goals to rival RSL and then responded with two goals of their own in quick succession. Then the Rapids proceeded to give up another second-half game-winning goal at home to lose 3-2. 

It wasn’t the cleanest game from either side, but the opportunity was there for the Rapids and they once again wasted it. 

Revs, FC Cincinnati Respond to Firings With Wins

May 11, 2019; Cincinnati, OH, USA; FC Cincinnati midfielder Fatai Alashe (27) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Montreal Impact in the second half at Nippert Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

FC Cincinnati and New England responded to the firings of their respective coaches last week with home victories, something the Rapids couldn’t do last week.

An early goal from Allan Cruz set the tone for FC Cincinnati’s win over Montreal, while the Revs struck within the first 20 minutes to down San Jose. 

Both teams put themselves in holes that will be hard to dig out of, but if Saturday is any indication, they should be on their way to regaining form in the next couple weeks. 

Atlanta United Starting to Look Scary Good

May 12, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United players defenders Leandro Gonzalez Pirez (5) Miles Robinson (12) Michael Parkhurst (3) and goalkeeper Brad Guzan (1) react after defeating Orlando City at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

In Atlanta United’s last four games, they have picked up four wins and four clean sheets. 

All of a sudden, the Five Stripes have turned into the Eastern Conference contender we expected them to be. 

Whatever you want to blame for the early-season struggles, whether it be the hectic nature of the Concacaf Champions League or Frank de Boer getting used to his players, has been swept away and the quest to repeat MLS Cup is on. 

Stock Up, Stock Down

May 10, 2019; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Whitecaps forward Fredy Montero (12) celebrates his goal against Portland Timbers goalkeeper Steve Clark (12) (not pictured) during the first half at BC Place. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports

Stock Up: Vancouver

Marc Dos Santos’ Whitecaps have two in a row and gotten points out of three straight games.

A big few weeks await for the Whitecaps to test themselves, starting with Atlanta United coming to BC Place on Wednesday night.

Before breaking for the Gold Cup, the Whitecaps have to face Sporting KC, New York Red Bulls, FC Dallas and Toronto FC. Yikes. 

Stock Up: Chicago

The Fire have put together similar results to the Whitecaps with seven points from their last three games. 

Veljko Paunovic’s side also faces a rocky road up to the Gold Cup with San Jose, NYCFC, D.C. United and Atlanta all on the docket. 

Stock Down: LA Galaxy

A few weeks ago we were talking about the LA Galaxy as LAFC’s top competition in the Western Conference. 

The Galaxy are still in good shape in the standings after losing three straight, but it is always concerning when a team falls three times in a row. 

The good news for the Galaxy is back-to-back games against Colorado and Orlando should remedy their situation.

Stock Down: Sporting Kansas City 

Peter Vermes’ Sporting Kansas City wasn’t able to dress a full bench for its Sunday loss to D.C. United. 

Injury woes and poor form have dropped the perennial West power down to 10th in the table. 

Sporting KC hasn’t won in the league since March 30 and needs to capitalize on a three-game home stretch in order to not be buried by the Gold Cup break. 

Stock Down: Orlando City

If Dom Dwyer finished his golden chance in front of goal, we might have left Orlando City alone this week. 

But that wasn’t the case and the Lions dropped yet another Southeast derby to Atlanta United. 

The Lions have yet to make that game a true rivalry because of Atlanta’s dominance and they have one win in their last five games with a Wednesday road trip to Seattle on the horizon.

The post MLS Week 11 Review: Union, NYCFC earn statement wins, Zlatan incident and more appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Atlanta United continued their good run of form in MLS, while DC United recorded a narrow win on Sunday. Gonzalo Martinez’s goal was enough for Atlanta to claim a fourth straight victory by beating Orlando City 1-0 in Georgia. Former River Plate midfielder Martinez scored his first goal for the club in the 14th minute, […]

The post MLS Review: Atlanta win again, Arriola lifts DC appeared first on Soccer News.

The post MLS Review: Atlanta win again, Arriola lifts DC appeared first on Soccer News.

In their first rivalry meeting of 2019, the Colorado Rapids hosted visiting Real Salt Lake to contest the Rocky Mountain Cup. After the visitors opened up a 2-0 lead with a penalty kick from Albert Rusnack (25’) and a goal from Corey Baird two minutes later, Colorado pulled back to within 2-1 at halftime with a goal from Kellyn Acosta (45’+3’). Colorado equalized with a second half goal from Danny Wilson (47’) but six minutes later Sam Johnson put RSL back in front, 3-2. Despite a strong push from Colorado in the waning moments, RSL went home with the victory.

Here are three takeaways from the Colorado Rapids’ 3-2 loss to Real Salt Lake:

Historically Bad

Colorado is now 0-9-2 through 11 matches, matching the 2007 edition of RSL (0-5-6) for the worst start through 11 matches in MLS history. In terms of points, the Rapids have earned four less points in that same span, arguably making them a worse team.

“Obviously it doesn’t give me any satisfaction to be part of that,”  Rapids defender Danny Wilson said postgame. “I think we can all hang our heads in shame. We’re the people that are here, we’re the only people that can do anything about it.”

With just two points earned thus far, the Rapids are currently earning points at a clip of 0.18 points per match with a third of the season already gone. Extrapolated over a 34-game season, Colorado is on pace for only 6 points. Obviously, a couple of wins or a handful of draws could easily turn this statistic, but Colorado’s current lack of points with a third of the season gone puts them well on pace to be in the company of some of the worst teams in MLS history as well.

For perspective, D.C. United’s squad earned 16 points over 34 games in 2013, a team regarded by many as the worst in league history. That team only earned three wins that season.

Seb Anderson Struggles

The 16-year-old homegrown has started the Rapids’ past three games and has at times shown flashes of ability to play with grown men who can be up to twice his age. But Saturday’s match marked some regression to the mean for the young defender, who was exposed on RSL’s first two goals.

Despite the early game struggles, interim head coach showed faith in the young player by keeping him in the match, and tactically switching Anderson from the left side of the formation to the right side, a more comfortable role and natural position for the youngster.

Casey showed further positive reinforcement with his postgame comments about Anderson.

“Seb is 16-years-old,” Casey said. “He’s a confident kid with a huge future with this club, so I’m very excited to have him on the team.”

VAR and controversy

As with most MLS games, MLS rivalry games, and particularly those between Colorado and RSL, Saturday’s match was filled with controversial decisions which arguably made an impact on the game for both sides.

In the 12th minute, Sebastian Saucedo went down after it appeared that Wilson made contact to his back. Twelve minutes after that, Saucedo did earn a PK, but only after a VAR review.

pic.twitter.com/QpuiTICdXj

— Real Salt Lake (@realsaltlake) May 12, 2019

Colorado also had reasons for complaint as another VAR review reversed the decision to issue a red card in the 35th minute for what looked like s studs out challenge by Justen Glad. Late in the match, with the Rapids pressing for an equalizer, some argued for a handball against RSL defender Nick Besler.

.@MLS @ColoradoRapids ROBBED at #Rapids96 @DSGpark ?
You make the call…#COLvRSL#RockyMountainCup 2019 pic.twitter.com/enS0RfQGHq

— John A. Babiak (@Photog_JohnB) May 12, 2019

Head referee Robert Sibiga again went to VAR, but opted not to award a penalty.

Both teams had differing views on the decisions.

“Again, we could’ve put them away some more, but then at the end they were throwing numbers forward and you know a couple of VAR looks,” said RSL head coach mike Petke. “I thought the refs, and I don’t say this maybe never, I thought the refs handled the game pretty well.”

Conversely, the Rapids felt hard done again by refereeing.

“I think something has to be done in this league about the referees,” said Wilson. “Because for some reason, we seem to be on the end of a lot of [decisions]. That’s all I’m saying.”

PRO Referees were unavailable for comment on the decisions made after the match, citing no listing of pool reporters in the locker room, despite two pool reporters on hand.

The post Rocky Mountain Rumble: Takeaways from Colorado’s 3-2 loss to Real Salt Lake appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Los Angeles FC moved further clear atop the Western Conference in MLS, while Philadelphia Union are at the summit in the east. Carlos Vela continued his prolific campaign for LA, scoring in a 3-0 win over Columbus Crew in Ohio on Saturday. Mark-Anthony Kaye opened the scoring before half-time, neatly tucking away a lovely pass […]

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COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – In their first rivalry meeting of 2019, the Colorado Rapids hosted Real Salt Lake as both teams looked to stake their claim at the Rocky Mountain Cup.

Having signed three new players this week, two of whom gained the starting nod in midfielder Jonathan Lewis and centerback Lalas Abubakar, the Rapids looked to end a seven-match losing streak while still seeking their first win of the season.

Despite Colorado’s efforts to come back from a two-goal deficit to level the match, RSL pulled out the 3-2 win on a second-half goal from Sam Johnson to leave Dick’s Sporting Goods Park with all three points.

“My head’s pounding and I’ll appreciate it tomorrow if I’ve got a voice,” RSL head coach Mike Petke said. “These rivalry games, it’s always a tough game. We controlled the game the first 30-35 minutes and to concede the goal, that was tough to take.

The Rapids, meanwhile, dropped their eighth in a row and second straight under interim manager Conor Casey.

“I just wanted to start and say the fans were unbelievable tonight — the atmosphere in the stadium, it’s been one of the best atmospheres that we’ve had all year,” Casey said postgame. “We started slow, unfortunately we’ve gone down 2-0 in the last two games, but the character of the group to come back once again and even the score — they never gave up on each other, we’re all very disappointed, there’s no question about it. The group knows it is moving in the right direction. We didn’t get the result we wanted tonight, but there was a lot of good, positive things to take away from tonight.”

Early in the match, Real Salt Lake (4-6-1, 13 points) built up a 2-0 lead in the first half on the back of goals from Albert Rusnak and Corey Baird.

After Sebastian Saucedo failed to draw a penalty decision after contact with Rapids defensive midfielder Danny Wilson early in the match, Saucedo was again clipped by Rapids defender Seb Anderson in the 22nd minute, prompting video review. Referee Robert Sibiga awarded a penalty and Rusnák buried it to put RSL up 1-0 in the 25th minute.

On the ensuing restart, RSL midfielder Nick Besler sent in a long ball for Baird, who calmly collected it in Colorado’s box, finishing past Rapids goalkeeper Tim Howard to double Real Salt Lake’s lead in the 27th minute.

Colorado (0-9-2, 2 points) pulled back a goal in first half stoppage time with Lewis streaking down the right side of Colorado’s defense, sending in a dangerous cross which ricocheted out to Kellyn Acosta, who drew the Rapids within 2-1 by halftime.

The Rapids then leveled at the start of the second half. On a corner kick opportunity, Rapids midfielder Jack Price found Sam Nicholson, whose header deflected off the near post out to Wilson, who leveled the match with his goal in the 47th minute.

“Obviously, it’s nice to score a goal, but that’s about it. Because we’ve been defeated again,” said Wilson. “It’s frustration. Absolute frustration because the run that we’ve been on is unacceptable.”

Six minutes later, RSL retook the lead. Damir Kreilach’s dribble at the endline found Sam Johnson outside the Rapids’ six-yard-box and the Designated Player scored to put RSL ahead 3-2 in the 53rd minute.

Colorado again had an opportunity to equalize with a penalty conceded by RSL defender Donny Toia in the 59th minute. But Rapids forward Kei Kamara’s attempt was saved by RSL ‘keeper Andrew Putna, standing in for the injured Nick Rimando.

 The Rapids again found an opportunity from the run of play when Kamara put in a dangerous shot from the right side of the box, but Putna again came up big with a save.

RSL likewise had a prime opportunity in the 73rd minute, but Joao Plata’s effort deflected off the post.

Colorado continued to push for an equalizer, but a penalty shout was waived off following video review in the 90th minute and what looked like a goal from Abubakar in extra time was called offside.

Having ended a two-game home stand without points, Colorado now takes to the road to face LA Galaxy next Sunday (8 p.m. EDT) while RSL returns to Rio Tinto to host Toronto FC next Saturday (3 pm. EDT).

The post Real Salt Lake draw first blood in Rocky Mountain Cup, beating Colorado Rapids appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Fredy Montero scored the only goal of the game as in-form Vancouver Whitecaps defeated Portland Timbers 1-0 in MLS. Former Sporting CP star Montero broke the deadlock in the ninth minute to extend hosts Vancouver’s unbeaten streak to three matches. Montero unleashed a powerful strike into the top corner of the net for his second […]

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The post Vancouver Whitecaps 1 Portland Timbers 0: Hosts extend unbeaten streak appeared first on Soccer News.

The Week 11 slate in Major League Soccer provides a chance to examine certain teams in different lights. 

FC Cincinnati and New England joined Colorado in the collection of teams to fire their head coaches, while a handful of significant signings and trades were made before the close of the primary transfer window Tuesday. 

Now, the mad sprint to the Concacaf Gold Cup break begins with some teams re-energized by the changes and others attempting to keep up the early-season form that boosted them up the standings. 

A trio of rivalry games stand out right away on the 12-game slate, which begins with the Cascadia Cup showdown between Portland and Vancouver. 

Real Salt Lake and Colorado renew Rocky Mountain Cup hostilities, and one of the league’s fastest-rising rivalries in the southeast takes center stage Sunday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

With staggered start times across the league Saturday, you should be able to watch a few minutes of each game, which can’t be said every week. 

Week 11 Schedule

Friday, May 10

Portland Timbers at Vancouver Whitecaps (10 p.m. ET, TSN1, ESPN+) 

Saturday, May 11

Montreal Impact at FC Cincinnati (1 p.m. ET, TVA Sport, ESPN+) 

New York Red Bulls at FC Dallas (2 p.m. ET, Univision) 

Philadelphia Union at Toronto FC (3 p.m. ET, TSN, ESPN+) 

New York City FC at LA Galaxy (4 p.m. ET, ESPN) 

Los Angeles FC at Columbus Crew (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

San Jose Earthquakes at New England Revolution (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

Minnesota United at Chicago Fire (8 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Real Salt Lake at Colorado Rapids (9 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Houston Dynamo at Seattle Sounders (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Sunday, May 12

Orlando City at Atlanta United (2:30 p.m. ET, Fox) 

Sporting Kansas City at D.C. United (7 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Storylines to Watch

1. Response To New Coaches

May 4, 2019; San Jose, CA, USA; FC Cincinnati defender Kendall Waston (2) passes the ball against the San Jose Earthquakes during the second half at Avaya Stadium. (Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports)

The Colorado Rapids failed to break out of their poor form when they played their first game since the firing of Anthony Hudson in Week 10.

FC Cincinnati and the Revolution will try to put together the opposite type of performance Saturday at home. 

FC Cincinnati let go of Alan Koch after struggling to find the back of the net in each of its last five games. There’s little going in favor of interim boss Yoann Damet, but it should help a little bit that the expansion side is back home for Saturday’s game against Montreal. 

A victory at home in front of one of the league’s top crowds would provide a jolt to a squad that faces three road trips in four games before the Gold Cup break. 

If it wasn’t for the Rapids, the Revs would be the hottest of hot messes in MLS. 

The firing of Brad Friedel on Thursday was necessary, but there’s still plenty of deeper-lying issues within the club that need to be fixed in order for success to be achieved on the field. 

The biggest goal for the Revs on Saturday against San Jose is to prove they have a competent defense again. The Revs conceded 18 goals in the last four games, and if the defensive issues aren’t fixed, no amount of attacking flair will be able to cover it up. 

2. First Versus Fourth In East 

Mar 2, 2019; Chester, PA; Toronto FC midfielder Jonathan Osorio (21) and Philadelphia Union midfielder Marco Fabian (10) challenge for a header at Talen Energy Stadium. (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports)

No one expected Saturday’s clash between the Philadelphia Union and Toronto FC to be a first-versus-fourth clash when the season began. 

In Week 1, Toronto went into Talen Energy Stadium and shook off its Concacaf Champions League struggles by beating the Union. 

The Union are a much different team than they were in Week 1, but they’re still missing a signature win after taking care of Montreal, FC Cincinnati and New England in recent weeks. 

With a healthy Marco Fabian in the lineup, the Union should be able to test the TFC backline, but the young defense trusted by manager Jim Curtin will be under the spotlight the most. 

Alejandro Pozuelo has proven to be one of the top playmakers in the league in a short time, and the Reds will have rested legs in midfield after Jonathan Osorio and Marky Delgado were rotated out of the lineup Wednesday in Atlanta. 

If Toronto wins, no one will bat an eye at the final score because people expect Greg Vanney’s side to win, but if the Union come away with three points, they’ll put the league on notice.

3. Can Columbus Keep Scoring? 

May 8, 2019; Columbus, OH; Columbus Crew SC forward Gyasi Zardes (11) celebrates his goal with teammates against the Los Angeles Galaxy at MAPFRE Stadium. (Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports)

The Columbus Crew finally broke out of their scoring drought Wednesday by putting three goals past the LA Galaxy. 

Los Angeles FC will be the next Western Conference contender to come into Mapfre Stadium on Saturday, and the Crew need to find a way to disassemble the Black-and-Gold defense to prove they can score on a consistent basis once again. 

The addition of David Accam in a trade with Philadelphia should add to the attacking threat on the wings, and if Accam makes an impact in the long term, it will go a long way in assisting the production of Gyasi Zardes. 

Zardes doesn’t need to be on the ball for long stretches, but he does need to be able to sneak through the LAFC defensive line to connect with the numerous crosses the Crew are expected to send in.

However, Zardes may have a hard time navigating through the penalty area due to the aerial presence of Walker Zimmerman. 

A victory at home by the Crew would be a bit of a statement, but most importantly, it would put them officially back on track in an Eastern Conference that is suddenly overflowing with contenders. 

4. Southeast Derby

Aug 24, 2018; Orlando, FL; Atlanta United forward Josef Martinez celebrates as he scores a goal against Orlando City SC at Orlando City Stadium. (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)

Atlanta United and Orlando City have developed a ferocious rivalry over two seasons and there’s a clear distaste for the opponent on each sideline based off previous meetings. 

The Five Stripes have a three-game winning streak against the Lions in the Southeast Derby. 

With Josef Martinez, Ezequiel Barco and Co. rounding into form, the Five Stripes are expected to be the aggressor over 90 minutes. 

But don’t count out the Orlando City attack with Nani running rampant down the wings. Few defenses have been able to contain the former Manchester United man since his MLS debut, but Franco Escobar is more than capable of holding his own in the one-on-one matchup. 

5. Can Sporting KC Turn Around Recent Form? 

May 5, 2019; Kansas City, KS, USA; Sporting Kansas City forward Johnny Russell (7) moves the ball against Atlanta United defender Michael Parkhurst (3) during the second half at Children’s Mercy Park. (Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports)

Sporting Kansas City’s recent lapse in form isn’t making headlines because, frankly, there are much worse dumpster fires still lit across MLS. 

The overwhelming belief with Sporting KC year after year is that eventually Peter Vermes will right the ship and have the club playing its best soccer when it matters the most. 

However, it is a bit concerning the club hasn’t won a league game since March 30, and there’s no guarantee the elusive victory comes at Audi Field in the Week 11 closer. 

Injuries and the Concacaf Champions League fallout can be blamed for the poor form, but this is a club with enough depth to get through the hard times and earn a result, especially with a familiar face in Benny Feilhaber coming back to the squad. 

Player to Watch

Luciano Acosta, M, D.C. United

Apr 9, 2019; Washington, DC, USA; D.C. United midfielder Luciano Acosta (10) dribbles the ball as Montreal Impact midfielder Samuel Piette (6) at Audi Field. (Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports)

The D.C. United attack looked lively in Week 10 against Columbus with Luciano Acosta pulling the strings from the middle of the park. 

Sunday presents Acosta and the rest of this teammates the perfect opportunity to take advantage of an out-of-form side and put a few goals in the back of the net. 

If that occurs, the Black-and-Red could have three wins in four games and a spot on top of the Eastern Conference. 

Matchup to Watch

Marco Fabian, Philadelphia Union vs. Michael Bradley, Toronto FC 

The last time Fabian and Bradley squared off in Week 1, there were plenty of dramatic moments. 

Union fans left the stadium calling for discipline to be handed down to Bradley after his countless fouls, while Fabian got his North American counterpart back with some cheeky skill. 

Saturday will be Fabian’s first game back from injury so he’ll be fresh and ready to take on a familiar foe once again. 

You ready for this weekend?? #DOOP pic.twitter.com/XsM0GWtPm9

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) May 9, 2019

Fantasy Player to Watch

Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United 

If you look back at most of our picks in this section, you’ll notice they’re more of a jinx than a predictor of what actually happens on the field.

So we’re going with another pick that seems super safe in Josef Martinez, who has three goals in his last four games. 

On top of that, Martinez has a superb scoring record against Orlando City. He scored in each of the three meetings with the Lions in 2018.

There's a reason he's the @MLS Goal King

Fearless @JosefMartinez17 https://t.co/GjAKPwdd2b

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) May 6, 2019

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