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It hasn’t been pretty for the Colorado Rapids during Anthony Hudson’s debut campaign as head coach. After 15 games, the Rapids have a tough hill to climb with just 12 points, 11 points back of the sixth playoff spot in the Western Conference.
On the back of Saturday’s 3-2 comeback win over Minnesota United — which gave Colorado its first win in 11 games played across all competitions— Pro Soccer USA takes a look at the biggest surprises of the Colorado Rapids’ season so far.
New coach, new players, new system. Same poor results.
It’s been better over the past two weeks as Colorado has earned four points in its past two matches, but with just 12 points amassed in 15 games played thus far, playoffs are still a tall order for the 2018 version of the Rapids. Just a point out of last place in the Western Conference and two points from being the worst team in MLS, the focus for Colorado has shifted to incremental improvement and avoiding league and franchise marks for futility.
Bottom of the table isn’t an unfamiliar feeling in Commerce City, give the Rapids track record since winning the MLS Cup in 2010. But with a new head coach, a rebuild of more than half of its roster and a publicly stated goal to “do better”, these results have been equally disappointing as they are surprising.
Colorado has only recently snapped a 10-game winless streak which included a franchise-record eight-losses in a row and nine losses across all competitions including an early exit from the U.S. Open Cup tournament where Colorado was defeated 2-0 by first year USL side Nashville SC.
As one Rapids fan on Reddit put it, “I came in just wanting to be better than last year and got the worst in Rapids history.”
The Stefan Aigner situation
Entering the 2018 season, Colorado Rapids fans were rife with enthusiasm on what German playmaker Stefan Aigner could do for the club with a full preseason. Why wouldn’t they be?
It was a signing that the front office promoted as a coup. Aigner was a player with Bundesliga experience obtained for what at the time seemed like a great value. Once he took the field in 2017, he provided an offensive spark the team was lacking with two goals and an assist in nine starts.
He was continually praised in the offseason and preseason, training with Bundesliga club Hoffenheim for preseason fitness and obtaining his green card to relieve the Rapids from having to apply another international roster spot. In a vacuum, it looked like a player committed to the cause.
But a preseason injury and green card travel led to Aigner being left off the team sheet early in the campaign, according to Rapids head coach Anthony Hudson. Aigner’s absence continued and frustrations boiled over with a heated exchange between the midfielder and head coach at an open practice in April.
Eventually, Hudson addressed the Aigner situation publicly, but the other side of the story from Aigner’s point of view wouldn’t come to light. Eventually, Aigner and the Rapids agreed to part ways and the player returned home to sign with another German club.
No one could have foreseen that less than a year after his highly touted signing, that Stefan Aigner would no longer be a part of the Colorado Rapids organization.
The continued rise of Dominique Badji
Plenty of Rapids fans will claim this isn’t a “surprise”, citing the fact that Colorado’s Senegalese striker led the team in scoring last season. But that mindset isn’t necessarily appreciative of what Badji is accomplishing and how rare it is.
For one, Badji has improved each season since joining the club as a fourth-round draft pick in 2015. This kind of consistency is rare, particularly for young MLS players with potential. Young players can show flashes of brilliance, but continued improvement over the course of four seasons is commendable. One needn’t look further than Colorado draft picks Deshorn Brown and Dillon Powers to see how promising careers can often take turns to different directions.
It should also be considered surprising because, on paper, even the front office didn’t expect this kind of production from Badji, who has six goals in 13 games played this season. In the offseason, Colorado made very public moves to sign strikers Jack McBean and Joe Mason in addition to drafting Niki Jackson. The Rapids search for a striker continued with the signing of PSG academy product Yannick Boli.
Despite the increased competition, Badji has risen to the task, accounting for nearly 40 percent of the team’s offensive production thus far – and he’s doing it with a new coach in a new system against defenses that are now keen on his scoring ability.
If it’s not surprising, it’s at the very least, impressive.
The post Colorado Rapids: Biggest surprises so far through MLS season appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Marco Cummings, Pro Soccer USA
NEW YORK (Wednesday, June 27, 2018) – Major League Soccer announced on Wednesday the complete five-day schedule of entertainment and charitable events prior to the 2018 MLS All-Star Game presented by Target. MLS, Atlanta United and the city of Atlanta welcome fans to enjoy a wide array of festivities, highlighted by a free concert and open training sessions before the best of MLS take on Italian giants Juventus at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on August 1 at 7:30 p.m. ET. The match will be televised domestically on ESPN and UniMás in the U.S., and on TSN and TVA Sports in Canada, as well as in more than 170 countries around the world.
Tickets are available for purchase here.
MLS All-Star week kicks off with the MLS Block Party on Saturday, July 28 at Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark on the iconic Atlanta BeltLine. The MLS Block Party is a celebration of Atlanta and soccer culture. Free and open to the public, the daylong party will include food and drinks, music, a soccer mini-pitch, games, apparel, and an Atlanta United viewing party. Atlanta recording artist Waka Flocka will be there to celebrate along with other celebrity friends and soccer legends. Iconic Atlanta artist Greg Mike will also be there finishing his MLS All-Star inspired mural live.
The party will continue Sunday, July 29, with a free concert beginning at 6 p.m. ET to celebrate the cross-section between soccer and music. The artist, an Atlanta native, will be announced at a later date. At that time, fans wishing to attend the MLS All-Star Concert presented by Target can secure their RSVP reservation by visiting MLSsoccer.com/FanPass. Due to space restrictions, registration does not guarantee entry, which will be first come, first served.
The Digital HQ presented by Wells Fargo opens on Sunday and will remain available for fans through Wednesday afternoon at 3 p.m. ET. The Digital HQ is a prime destination for fans featuring lounges to experience Digital HQ through games, giveaways and access to live productions. MLS All-Stars will be dropping in for interviews and roundtable discussions throughout the week and Digital HQ will also be the home of the eMLS All-Star Challenge presented by Wells Fargo, where eMLS competitors will team up with influencers from the gaming community, MLS players and amateur gamers for a dynamic, fun and entertaining 2 v 2 competition.
Men in Blazers LIVE MLS All-Star Extravaganza will once again take place during MLS All-Star week. Known for their “occasionally intelligent, always passionate take on global football's unspooling narrative,” Roger Bennett and Michael Davies will bring their live show to Atlanta to celebrate all things soccer, featuring guest appearances by MLS All-Stars and other prominent characters of the beautiful game. The show will be at the Tabernacle (6:30 p.m. ET) on Monday night and tickets can be purchased here.
Tuesday, July 31, just one day before the MLS All-Star Game, welcomes the most robust day of programming beginning first with Juventus and MLS All-Stars’ open training sessions. Juventus will take the pitch at 10 a.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium followed by the MLS All-Stars. Tickets are available for purchase here, with one ticket providing access to both sessions.
Tuesday evening, the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground will play host to a doubleheader as the fifth annual Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Showcase presented by MLS WORKS and ESPN precedes the annual MLS Homegrown Game presented by Energizer. The Unified Sports All-Star soccer teams will play an 11 v 11 match, featuring athletes with and without intellectual disabilities representing MLS clubs. The match will be livestreamed on MLS YouTube beginning at 6 p.m. ET. The MLS Homegrown Game will showcase the next generation of MLS stars against Tigres UANL, the reigning Mexican league’s Under-20 champion. The game will be broadcast nationally on Univision Deportes Network and livestreamed on Twitter. Tickets to the doubleheader, starting at $15, are available for purchase by clicking here.
The festivities will continue at the Soccer Celebration presented by Scott, an interactive fan zone with music, games, autographs and free giveaways taking place on the International Plaza outside Gate 2 of Mercedes-Benz Stadium over a four-hour window leading up to the main event – the MLS All-Stars taking on the seven-time defending Italian champions Juventus.
View the full list of activities surrounding the MLS All-Star Game presented by Target below.
| DATE | ACTIVATION | LOCATION | TIME | TICKETS |
| Saturday, July 28 | MLS Block Party | Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark on the BeltLine | 12 - 11 p.m. ET | Free - No pass required |
| Sunday, July 29 - Wednesday, August 1 | MLS Digital HQ presented by Wells Fargo | Southern Exchange (200 Marietta St NW Atlanta, GA 30303) | 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. ET *Opens at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday. Closes at 3:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday. | Free - No pass required |
| Sunday, July 29 | MLS All-Star Concert presented by Target | Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark on the BeltLine | 6 p.m. ET | Fan Pass required (More information coming soon) |
| Monday, July 30 | Men in Blazers Extravaganza | Tabernacle | 6:30 p.m. ET | |
| Tuesday, July 31 | Juventus Open Training followed by MLS All-Star Open Training | Mercedes-Benz Stadium | 10 a.m. ET | Buy tickets here |
| Tuesday, July 31 | Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Showcase presented by MLS WORKS and ESPN | Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground | 6 p.m. ET | Buy tickets here (includes access to MLS Homegrown Match) |
| Tuesday, July 31 | MLS Homegrown Match presented by Energizer | Children's Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground | 8 p.m. ET | Buy tickets here (includes access to Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Showcase) |
| Wednesday, August 1 | eMLS All-Star Challenge presented by Wells Fargo | MLS Digital HQ presented by Wells Fargo | 12 - 3 p.m. ET | More information on how to enter coming soon |
| Wednesday, August 1 | Soccer Celebration presented by Scott | Georgia World Congress Center International Plaza | 3 - 7 p.m. ET | Free - No pass required |
| Wednesday, August 1 | MLS All-Star Game presented by Target | Mercedes-Benz Stadium | 7:30 p.m. ET | Buy tickets here |
Philadelphia Union Midfielder Borek Dockal Voted Alcatel MLS Player of the Week
NEW YORK (Tuesday, June 26, 2018) – Philadelphia Union midfielder Borek Dockal was voted the Alcatel Major League Soccer Player of the Week by the North American Soccer Reporters (NASR) for the 17th week of the 2018 MLS season.
Philadelphia defeated Vancouver Whitecaps FC 4-0 at Talen Energy Stadium on Saturday, with Dockal scoring two goals to lift the Union and snap Vancouver’s six-game unbeaten streak. In 15 games played this season, Dockal has five goals and six assists, leading the team in both categories. The Union sit sixth in the Eastern Conference with 21 points (6-7-3 overall record).
The Czech Republic international opened the scoring with a goal with a left-footed shot from the right side of the box in the 24th minute. Ilsinho recovered a failed clearance, finding Dockal in the box, who then sent a curling shot through three defenders into the bottom left corner of goal, leaving Vancouver goalkeeper Brian Rowe helpless (Watch Goal).
The midfielder showed his playmaking skills once again in the 71st minute with his second goal of the match to give Philadelphia a 2-0 lead, completing his first career MLS brace. Dockal found an Alejandro Bedoya pass at the top of the box then sidestepped past two defenders, firing a shot from the center of the box into the left side of the goal (Watch Goal).
The Philadelphia Union return to action on Saturday, June 30 to face the Los Angeles Football Club at Banc of California Stadium (8 p.m. ET, ESPN+).
The Alcatel MLS Player of the Week is chosen each week of the regular season by members of the North American Soccer Reporters. The organization includes print, television, radio and online journalists who cover domestic men's soccer in the United States and Canada. Learn more about the NASR and apply to join at https://www.facebook.com/soccerreporters/.
COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – For the first time in 11 tries, including U.S. Open Cup competition, the Colorado Rapids have won a match.
A stoppage time header from Tommy Smith at the death secured all three points for the host Saturday night, as Colorado defeated Minnesota United 3-2 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
“It’s been a tough period for everyone,” Rapids head coach Anthony Hudson said of snapping a 10-game winless streak across all competitions. “Most of all it’s been tough for the fans. It would’ve been quite easy, and we all would’ve understood if they would’ve turned and not backed us. The Fans kept backing the team to the final whistle and we’re quite fortunate to have fans like we have because they’ve been very patient with us.”
In the first half, Minnesota had the lion’s share of the early chances in the contest including an effort from Miguel Ibarra that was blocked by Tim Howard in the 9th minute. Ibarra would eventually beat Howard, as a low shot by teammate Darwin Quintero went between the Rapids keeper’s legs, with Ibarra following up to give the Loons a 1-0 lead in the 23rd minute.
“I thought the game plan we had worked very, very well,” Minnesota United head coach Adrian Heath said. “We had the ball and kept possession. At times, we were a bit elaborate and I think we could’ve been a bit more positive in the final third. In the first half, we had several [1-v-1 opportunities] on the counter attack.”
Colorado had a response, however, as Rapids striker Dominique Badji seemingly found an equalizer in the 30th minute, but a foul by Badji nullified what looked like a game tying goal.
At the end of 45 minutes, Colorado and Minnesota were level in shots (7), but the visitors had five shots on target to none for Colorado, including the goal.
“We didn’t start very well, so we had to adjust that at halftime,” Hudson said of the effort. “The lads responded really well.”
Colorado would find an equalizer early in the second half, as defender Edgar Castillo’s right footed shot from the top of the box went top shelf past Minnesota goalkeeper Bobby Shuttleworth to knot the game at 1-1 in the 50th minute.
“In our situation, it would’ve been easy just to accept our fate because that’s the way it’s been,” Hudson said. “But we kept going.”
Six minutes later, the Rapids nearly took the lead, but Jack McBean’s shot inside the six pinged off the post.
Instead, the Loons would put their noses in front again as Minnesota midfielder Christian Ramirez found the back of the net, receiving the pass from Ibarra out wide. Ramirez’s goal gave the Loons a 2-1 lead in the 65th minute.
Colorado responded again as substitute Joe Mason found the ball on a Rapids’ counter attack. Mason’s chipped effort found its way past Shuttleworth to knot the game up again at 2-2 in the 74th minute.
Moments after the goal, Ibarra was ejected from the match with red card for violent conduct. Behind the play, Ibarra was seen striking Rapids defender Danny Wilson, which referee Hilario Grajeda confirmed with the VAR.
“When you go a man down and they score a goal, it takes away your synergy,” Heath said of the decision. “It was a tough one to take.”
With the man advantage, Colorado would again push to take the lead – its best opportunity coming in the 88th minute off a Shkëlzen Gashi free kick. But Wilson’s low shot following the set piece bounced off of Shuttleworth and out of danger.
Colorado continued to push into stoppage time. On the final corner kick of the game, Gashi’s corner found Smith, whose goal would give the Rapids the lead for good.
“I’m pleased because we’ve been so close so many times,” Hudson said of the goal. “I’m pleased with Tommy’s reaction. He’s a strong character. He’s a big character. I was pleased that he got his reward and the goal in the end was for the whole team. It really was tonight a team performance.”
Up next, Colorado face Vancouver at BC Place Sunday, while Minnesota will return home to face FC Dallas on Friday night.
The post Tommy Smith header gives Colorado first win in 11 tries, Rapids edge Minnesota 3-2 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Marco Cummings, Pro Soccer USA
COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Former Colorado Rapids midfielder Stefan Aigner has found a new club. The 30-year-old, whose contract was mutually terminated by Colorado less than two weeks ago, has signed with KFC Uerdingen 05 in the German third division, the club announced Monday.
Aigner played just 11 minutes this season in MLS under newly hired Rapids head coach Anthony Hudson, who cited numerous reasons for the German’s lack of playing time including fitness and a lack of commitment to the club.
Following his Rapids exit, numerous German clubs had rumored interest in Aigner, including his longtime club TSV 1860 Munich.
Despite his often publicly stated loyalty to his boyhood club, Aigner was reviled by some 1860 Munich fans for being the face of the club’s numerous relegations over the past few seasons in addition to his perceived mercenaryism after leaving the club for Eintracht Frankfurt in 2012 and Colorado last season. Nonetheless, a recent poll of 1860 Munich fans showed 77 percent support in favor of his return.
In the end, Aigner chose to sign with KFC Uerdingen 05, which he will join on a reported three-year deal.
“We are very happy that Stefan Aigner has decided in favor of KFC Uerdingen, and many clubs and his home club have been interested in him and have given everything,” said KFC Managing Director Nikolas Weinhart. “For us, this commitment is an important building block and will be ours certainly again decisively strengthen.”
KFC Uerdingen 05 will begin its 2018-19 campaign on July 27th and will compete head-to-head with 1860 Munich as one of three clubs recently promoted from the German Regionalliga (fourth division).
Following a 10-day break from league play, Colorado will resume action this Saturday against Minnesota United FC (9 p.m. EDT).
The post Former Colorado Rapids midfielder Stefan Aigner lands with new German club appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Marco Cummings, Pro Soccer USA
Mexico Head Coach on Carlos Vela: 'He was one of our best' in win vs. defending World Cup champion Germany
World Cup precedes can't-miss Atlanta-Portland matchup on FOX
LAFC, league's new guard stay in thick of U.S. Open Cup race
MLS Week 17: Match Notes
Mexico Head Coach on Carlos Vela: 'He was one of our best' in win vs. defending World Cup champion Germany
With Mexico (and all soccer fans around the world) still buzzing about yesterday’s 1-0 win over defending World Cup champions Germany, head coach Juan Carlos Osorio heralded LAFC’s Carlos Vela play in the hard-fought match.
“He was one of our best players today,” Osorio said. “If you remember, Carlos was the one who made the last pass for the shots we had, for the chances in the final third, and the idea with him was to give us everything for 60 minutes. He made a very big effort.”
As a central attacking midfielder in Osorio's 4-5-1 formation, Vela ran the counterattack strategy that saw Germany maintain a majority of possession (61%), but that punished the defending champions as the Mexican side converted one of their four shots on goal. Of his decision to sub Vela out in the 60th minute, Osorio disclosed that while it pained him to do so, it was always his plan to give the LAFC star that span of time in the match.
While neither were utilized during the match, both Jonathan and Gio dos Santos were available for the game and could feature in the remaining group stage matches against South Korea and Sweden as fresh legs during what could be the beginning of a deep run into the tournament for El Tri.
Alongside the current MLS players, two additional familiar faces appeared on this magic Mexico squad: RSL Academy Product and former Real Salt Lake player Carlos Salcedo, and former New York Red Bulls defender Rafa Marquez who became just the third player in history to appear in five FIFA World Cups.
MLS Players by the Numbers in the FIFA World Cup
With their appearances in the first week of play, Carlos Vela (Mexico) and Marco Ureña (Costa Rica) have now played in two World Cups, while an appearance for Giovani dos Santos (Mexico) would be his third consecutive appearance in a World Cup.
Eight MLS players appeared in their first World Cup including four standouts playing 90 minutes in Panama’s first ever World Cup match, headlined by team captain Román Torres, alongside Fidel Escobar, Michael Murillo and Anibal Godoy.
Yoshimar Yotún is one of six MLS players to go the full 90 minutes in his squads opening match, leading all players in touches, passes attempted, passes completed and long balls completed in Peru’s opening match against Denmark.
Costa Rica’s Francisco Calvo played the entire match and was one of three MLS players to start against Serbia alongside David Guzmán and Ureña.
Gustav Svensson, meanwhile featured as a substitute in Sweden’s victory over South Korea on Monday.
Through the span of 14 World Cup matches, 10 current MLS players have seen time on the field. Eight current MLS players are awaiting their first appearance in the 2018 World Cup, with seven looking for their first ever appearance in the World Cup. Those players include Mexico’s Jonathan dos Santos, Egypt’s Omar Gaber, Costa Rica’s Kendall Waston and Rodney Wallace, Panama’s Harold Cummings and Adolfo Machado, and Peru’s Andy Polo.
Twelve of 13 former MLS players have seen the pitch thus far in the World Cup, including former Red Bulls player Rafa Marquez for Mexico.
World Cup precedes can’t-miss Atlanta-Portland matchup on FOX
The energy and excitement of the 2018 FIFA World Cup will flow into one of the most raucous of all MLS atmospheres this Sunday on FOX (4:30 p.m. ET), as the attacking style of league-leading Atlanta United prepares to host the Portland Timbers, who are undefeated in their last 10 games in all competitions.
In only their second season, Atlanta United have proven they are a force to be reckoned with, breaking attendance records with a passionate fanbase at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and charting major production on the field. Atlanta sits atop the league standings with a 10-3-3 record, collecting more regular season wins than any other club, and scoring 33 goals to lead all MLS finishing. Atlanta forward Josef Martinez leads the Golden Boot race with a tally of 14 goals, which is four more than the next-closest contenders.
Portland is riding a 10-game unbeaten streak and has newfound success in the winning combination of a two-forward front that features forward Fanendo Adi and Samuel Armenteros. The two combined to take down the LA Galaxy in Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup competition last week as part of a diamond formation that also could feature reigning MVP Diego Valeri as the playmaker.
The World Cup Group H match between Poland and Colombia (2 p.m. ET / FOX) precedes this fixture, and with the global event placing the sport center stage, Atlanta-Portland is one MLS matchup not to miss.
LAFC, league’s new guard stay in thick of U.S. Open Cup race
The Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 takes over the first half of this week, and the new guard in MLS is still in the thick of this year’s tournament. The league’s four newest teams over the past four seasons have advanced to this stage, and each has an opportunity to move into the tournament quarterfinals. U.S. Open Cup games are available live via U.S. Soccer’s Match Center.
Starting Monday night, 2017 expansion Minnesota United FC visit the Houston Dynamo at BBVA Compass Stadium. Then on an action-packed Wednesday, Orlando City SC (2015) visit D.C. United, Atlanta United (2017) will host four-time Open Cup winners the Chicago Fire and 2018 newcomers Los Angeles Football Club – led by head coach and two-time Open Cup champion Bob Bradley – welcome the United Soccer League’s Sacramento Republic FC.
All four teams posted clean sheets during the tournament’s fourth round, with Minnesota garnering a shootout victory against future MLS side FC Cincinnati, the Cinderella Story of the 2017 U.S. Open Cup with their run to the semifinals. Orlando is the only team among this group since 2015 to previously advance to the Open Cup Quarterfinals, reaching that stage during its inaugural MLS season before falling to Chicago in the 2015 U.S. Open Cup.
This year’s Open Cup Round of 16 already drew some earthshattering attention on Saturday as Yohan Croizet’s game-winning volley propelled defending Open Cup champions Sporting Kansas City to a 3-2 victory against FC Dallas. The 26-year-old Frenchman called his 89th-minute strike “the best goal of my career.” (Watch goal)
Round of 16 schedule (times ET):
Monday, June 18
Houston Dynamo vs. Minnesota United, 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, June 20
D.C. United vs. Orlando City SC, 7 p.m.
Atlanta United vs. Chicago Fire, 7:30 p.m.
Los Angeles Football Club vs. Sacramento Republic FC (USL), 10:30 p.m.
MLS Week 17: Match Notes
Saturday, June 23, 2018
Philadelphia Union vs. Vancouver Whitecaps FC, 5 p.m. ET (TSN 1/5; ESPN+)
The Union have suffered back-to-back losses in league play, last a 2-0 defeat to Toronto FC at Talen Energy Stadium on June 8.
Whitecaps FC extended their undefeated streak to six games with a second consecutive victory, defeating Orlando City SC 5-2 at BC Place on June 9. The six-game unbeaten run is one game shy of the club’s record in its MLS history, set last season.
Alphonso Davies scored a goal and added a club-record three assists – the youngest player in MLS history to collect three assists, and record a combination of at least four goals plus assists in one game, according to the Elias Sports Bureau. The five goals scored by Whitecaps FC were also a club record in an MLS league game.
Whitecaps FC have a four-game undefeated streak alive in the series, the last Union win vs. Vancouver coming in 2013. The ‘Caps have won twice in that span with two draws, including a goalless draw in the only meeting between the teams last year, March 5 at BC Place.
Whitecaps FC have come away with points on their past three visits to Chester, including a 3-2 win in the last meeting at Talen Energy Stadium, June 25, 2016. The Union have won just one home match vs. Vancouver – the first meeting ever between the teams, a 1-0 victory on March 26, 2011.
New York Red Bulls vs. FC Dallas, 6 p.m. ET (UniMás)
The Red Bulls put an end to a brief two-game winless run last time out, defeating Seattle Sounders FC 2-1 at Red Bull Arena last Wednesday.
Bradley Wright-Phillips scored his 10th goal of the season, tied for second in the MLS Golden Boot standings. It was the fifth consecutive season where Wright-Phillips has hit double figures in goals, the fourth player in league history to do that.
FC Dallas won their fourth consecutive game and extended their overall undefeated streak to seven matches, defeating the Montréal Impact 2-0 at Toyota Stadium on June 9. The winning streak is two games shy of the club record, set in 1999-2000.
The Red Bulls have a five-game undefeated streak in the series, the last FC Dallas victory coming March 11, 2012. The Red Bulls have won three of the five encounters since, with two draws, including a 2-2 result last Sept. 2 at Toyota Stadium.
The first goal scored by FC Dallas in last year’s match ended a 443-minute goalless drought vs. the Red Bulls, their last goal scored in the series coming in the 2012 victory in Frisco, a 2-1 win.
FC Dallas haven’t won at the Red Bulls since 2006, when they took a 2-1 victory at Giants Stadium. FCD has never won at Red Bull Arena (0-2-2). The Red Bulls have won on three of their last six visits to Frisco, with two draws, in both league and MLS Cup play.
Orlando City SC vs. Montreal Impact, 7:30 p.m. ET (TVA Sports; ESPN+)
The teams are meeting in the back end of a home-and-home series on either side of the World Cup recess, with the Impact taking a 3-0 win at Stade Saputo last Wednesday evening.
Ignacio Piatti scored a pair of goals, now with seven on the season. Of the past 12 goals scored by the Impact, dating back to April 21, Piatti has been involved in nine (six goals, three assists). The Impact win was their second in the past three games, coming off a four-game losing run.
The defeat was a club-record sixth in a row for Orlando City SC, having conceded multiple goals in each. It was the final game in charge for head coach Jason Kreis, relieved of his duties in the days following the match.
The Impact have a four-game undefeated streak alive in the series after the 3-0 win in the first meeting, the last Orlando City win vs. Montréal coming Sept. 7, 2016, a 4-1 triumph at Stade Saputo.
The Impact have come away with points on their past two visits to Orlando, after the teams reached a 3-3 draw last June 17 at Orlando City Stadium in the only meeting there. OCSC had won the first two encounters all-time in Orlando. The Impact have now won the past two meetings between the teams in Montréal.
Sporting Kansas City vs. Houston Dynamo, 8:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+)
Sporting Kansas City extended their undefeated streak to six games with a third draw in that time, reaching a goalless draw with the Portland Timbers at Providence Park on June 9.
The Dynamo put an end to a brief two-game losing slide, getting a pair of first-half goals on their way to a 2-0 win against the Colorado Rapids at BBVA Compass Stadium on June 9.
The teams met twice a year ago in league play, both games coming over a five-day span in the penultimate week of the season. The Dynamo took a 2-1 win on Oct. 11 at BBVA Compass Stadium; the teams then reached a goalless draw at Children’s Mercy Park.
The teams also met in the Knockout Round of the MLS Cup Playoffs, an Alberth Elis goal in extra time giving the Dynamo a 1-0 win in Houston.
Sporting’s last win at home in the series came in 2011, winless in the past seven meetings at Children’s Mercy Park (0-1-6). The Dynamo have won the last three league meetings in Houston, the only victories for the home team in the series in the last 12 matches.
The teams have also met each of the past three years in the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup, with Sporting claiming a 2-0 win in Houston last year in a fifth-round meeting.
Colorado Rapids vs. Minnesota United FC, 9 p.m. ET (ESPN+)
The Rapids put an end to their club-record eight-game losing run but still saw their winless streak extended, playing to a 2-2 draw with the Chicago Fire at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park last Wednesday evening. The nine-game winless streak matches the third-longest in the club’s history, last achieved last season (from July 4-Sept. 2).
Tommy Smith netted his first MLS goal for the Rapids while also contributing an assist, the third of his league career.
MNUFC weren’t able to build upon a first win in four matches, falling 4-1 to Sporting KC in their last match, June 3 at Children’s Mercy Park.
The teams met twice in Minnesota United’s inaugural campaign. They reached a 2-2 draw in the first encounter, March 18 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park; MNUFC then claimed a 1-0 win on April 18 at TCF Bank Stadium.
Real Salt Lake vs. San Jose Earthquakes, 10 p.m. (ESPN+)
Real saw their three-game winning run put to an end last time out, falling 3-0 to the LA Galaxy at StubHub Center on June 9.
The Quakes put an end to their four-game losing skid, but still saw their winless streak extended to six matches, reaching a 2-2 draw with the New England Revolution at Avaya Stadium on June 13.
Danny Hoesen scored the Quakes’ goals in the draw, his second two-goal game in his MLS career, now with nine goals on the season, tied for fourth in the MLS Golden Boot standings.
The teams split their season series a year ago. The Quakes took a 2-1 win on June 24 at Avaya Stadium in the first meeting, before Real returned the favor with a 4-0 victory Aug. 23 at Rio Tinto Stadium.
Real are undefeated in their past four home meetings with the Quakes, with two wins and two draws in that time, the last San Jose victory in Sandy coming in 2013.
The Quakes now own a three-game winning streak in the series in San Jose, the last RSL win there a 1-0 triumph on April 5, 2015.
Seattle Sounders FC vs. Chicago Fire, 10 p.m. ET (ESPN+)
Sounders FC weren’t able to build upon a first win in four matches, suffering a 2-1 loss to the New York Red Bulls on June 13 at Red Bull Arena, their third consecutive away defeat.
The Fire extended their undefeated streak to three games with a second consecutive draw, reaching a 2-2 result with the Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park last Wednesday.
Aleksandar Katai netted his fifth goal of the season for the Fire, a sixth consecutive game with either a goal or an assist, with three goals and three assists over that span.
The Fire won the lone meeting between the teams a year ago, a 4-1 victory on May 13 at Toyota Park. The Fire have won the past two meetings in Bridgeview.
The Fire have never won in Seattle in five league visits, Sounders FC now hold a four-game winning streak at CenturyLink Field dating back to 2010. Sounders FC have also won twice at home in U.S. Open Cup matches, including a 2-0 victory in the final in 2011.
Los Angeles Football Club vs. Columbus Crew SC, 10:30 p.m. ET (ESPN+)
LAFC put an end to their four-game winless run, coming back for a dramatic 4-3 win against the San Jose Earthquakes at Avaya Stadium on June 9.
Adama Diomandé scored a pair of goals, his second in the 90th minute as LAFC overturned a deficit after the regulation 90 minutes were complete. Diomandé has three goals in his first three MLS appearances.
Crew SC saw their nine-game undefeated run put to an end, a string of three draws followed by a 2-0 loss to Atlanta United at Mapfre Stadium on June 13. Zack Steffen returned from international duty and saw his personal shutout streak come to an end after 525 minutes, the eighth-longest in MLS history.
The teams are meeting for the first time. Crew SC have lost to an expansion team in their first meeting just three times in the club’s history, after a 3-1 loss to Atlanta United in their inaugural match last year. The Crew lost 2-0 to the Chicago Fire in their first encounter in 1998 – then did not lose to an expansion team in the inaugural meeting until 2011, when they lost to Portland. All-time, Crew SC are 9-3-3 when playing expansion sides for the first time.
Sunday, June 24, 2018
Atlanta United vs. Portland Timbers, 4:30 p.m. ET (FOX / FOX Deportes)
Atlanta United extended their undefeated run to four games with a second victory in that time, defeating Columbus Crew SC 2-0 at Mapfre Stadium on June 13.
Josef Martínez scored for a fourth consecutive game, with six goals in that span (dating back to May 30), now with 14 goals for the season to lead the MLS Golden Boot standings.
The Timbers extended their undefeated streak to eight games with a second consecutive draw, reaching a goalless result with Sporting Kansas City at Providence Park on June 9. The eight-game unbeaten run is the fourth-longest in the club’s MLS history.
The teams met once in Atlanta United’s inaugural campaign, reaching a 1-1 draw May 14 at Providence Park.
New York City FC vs. Toronto FC, 5 p.m. ET (TSN 4/5; ESPN+)
NYCFC saw their perfect record at home come to an end, but still remain undefeated at Yankee Stadium this season following a 1-1 draw with Atlanta United on June 9. NYCFC are undefeated in their past nine home games, the third-longest undefeated run in the Bronx in club history.
Toronto FC extended their undefeated run to three games with a second draw in that time, coming back from three goals down to claim a share of a 4-4 draw with D.C. United at BMO Field on June 13.
The teams met twice in a year ago, both coming in a span of 11 days. The teams reached a 2-2 draw July 19 at Yankee Stadium, then TFC rolled to a 4-0 victory July 30 at BMO Field as Sebastian Giovinco scored two more goals vs. NYCFC.
The TFC win in the last meeting was their first in league play against NYCFC, in seven regular-season meetings. NYCFC had won two of the first six meetings all-time, with four draws.
The teams did also meet in the Eastern Conference Semifinals in 2016 – and Toronto FC won 7-0 on aggregate, winning 2-0 at BMO Field, then 5-0 at Yankee Stadium.
David Villa has scored seven goals with one assist in four league appearances vs. Toronto FC, five of those goals coming in meetings in the Bronx.
Sebastian Giovinco has six goals and two assists in league play vs. NYCFC, including a hat trick in a nine-minute span in a 4-4 draw on July 12, 2015, at Yankee Stadium; he also scored a hat trick and added an assist in the second leg of the MLS Cup Playoffs series.
Montreal Impact Midfielder Ignacio Piatti Voted Alcatel MLS Player of the Week
NEW YORK (Friday, June 15, 2018) – Montreal Impact midfielder Ignacio Piatti was voted the Alcatel Major League Soccer Player of the Week by the North American Soccer Reporters (NASR) for the 16th week of the 2018 MLS season.
Montreal defeated Orlando City SC 3-0 on Wednesday night at Stade Saputo, with Piatti scoring two goals to help lift the Impact. Piatti has seven goals and six assists this season, making him the only player in the league to rank in the top 10 of both categories in 2018. The Impact sit ninth in the Eastern conference with 15 points (5-11-0 overall record).
Piatti put Montreal on the board in the early moments of the match with a penalty kick driven into the bottom left corner to give the Impact a 1-0 lead in the fifth minute (Watch Goal). Montreal doubled its lead when Piatti sent a ball out wide to Daniel Lovitz, whose cross in front of goal in the 55th minute forced the defense into an error resulting in an own goal to push the Impact lead to 2-0 (Watch).
The Argentine finished his impressive outing, scoring Montreal’s third goal in second half stoppage time. Piatti broke in behind the defense in the box with a pass from Saphir Taïder, then rounded Orlando goalkeeper Joe Bendik, finishing with a strike to goal to cap the Impact’s dominant 3-0 victory (Watch Goal). The brace was Piatti’s second multi-goal performance of the season and 12th in his MLS regular season career.
Montreal returns to MLS regular season action on Saturday, June 23 to face Orlando City SC at Orlando City Stadium (7:30 p.m. ET, TVAS / ESPN+).
The Alcatel MLS Player of the Week is chosen each week of the regular season by members of the North American Soccer Reporters. The organization includes print, television, radio and online journalists who cover domestic men's soccer in the United States and Canada. Learn more about the NASR and apply to join at https://www.facebook.com/soccerreporters/.
A first half goal from Rapids striker Dominique Badji (7’) and a headed goal from Tommy Smith (15’) gave Colorado an early 2-0 lead, but the visiting Chicago Fire and midfielder Aleksandar Katai responded to score two goals in quick succession to tie the match at 2-2. Despite second half efforts from both sides, Colorado and Chicago both walked away with a point in a 2-2 draw at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
Here are three takeaways from the Colorado Rapids’ 2-2 draw with Chicago:
They are who we thought they were
Colorado got off the snide a bit by ending the losing streak at eight games, or as Rapids head coach Anthony Hudson said numerous times during his postgame press conference, “We stopped the bleeding”.
But despite a more positive effort and response, Colorado still displayed some of the same issues and identity fans have seen all season.
Dominique Badji continues to be the team’s lone threat offensively – which could prove dire for the team’s offense if he’s absent from the lineup like he was last week against Houston.
Defensively, Colorado displayed an issue the team has had all season: the inability to hold a lead. It cost the team from taking all three points after going 2-0 in the first half, which was déjà vu for those who’d witnessed a similar collapse against Sporting Kansas City.
The Rapids may have ended the losing streak – but still need to manage a win in the next four games to avoid matching a club record winless streak (14). Yet despite all that is plaguing the team – the lineup of opponents in Minnesota United, Vancouver, Seattle and Montreal presents a prime opportunity to grab a win.
Tommy Smith finally gets on the scoresheet
The Rapids centerback had been working hard all season to score on a header off a set piece and on Wednesday night, the New Zealand international delivered with a header in the 15th minute.
“Yeah, we do a lot of work on the set piece and I’m just glad it’s come off for now and we’ve been close a lot of times,” Smith said of his goal. “Good finish in the end. Great ball from (Jack) Pricey and like you said it was a good start to the game.”
The goal marked the first for Smith in a Rapids uniform and his first in MLS. He wasn’t without opportunity, however, with 13 shots (four on-target) prior to scoring.
Smith’s header (along with his assist on Badji’s opening goal) was also important because it adds a different dynamic to Colorado’s attack, which has largely consisted of the one-man Dominique Badji Show.
Team goals have changed from playoffs to baby steps
Shortly after being hired by the Colorado Rapids, Anthony Hudson penned an open letter to fans as his introduction to the club’s fan base. In that letter, he outlined his intended goals for the team.
Per Hudson:
Our goal is to be a perennial playoff team. Our goal is to bring another MLS Cup home to Colorado.Six months later, those goals have changed and apologies have been issued to fans.
“I think the first goal was to stop the run,” Hudson said on Wednesday. “Anything is possible because we’ve seen teams go on good runs and bad runs. We’re seeing that now with some very good teams going on bad runs: 5-6 games without a win. What we are is a team that’s very much in transition. We have to get our squad and our team settled and keep improving.
https://www.prosoccerusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Hudson-6-13.m4a“If we can just keep improving the team, that’s the first goal,” he continued. “Beyond that, if we can put a run together, then we can look at that again and give ourselves belief. Anything is possible but we’re not looking at that now. I don’t it’s right for me to sit here after this run and say: playoffs. We need to improve the team, we need stability, we need to use the [transfer] window well. We need to keep improving.”
The post Three Takeaways from the Colorado Rapids 2-2 draw with the Chicago Fire appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Marco Cummings, Pro Soccer USA
COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Looking to avoid extending a club-record eight game losing streak, the Colorado Rapids finally stepped away with a point Wednesday night. They weathered a comeback effort from the Chicago Fire to earn a 2-2 draw at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park.
“In the end, when it’s all said and done, I’m happy that we’ve stopped the bleeding,” Rapids head coach Anthony Hudson told reporters postgame. “That was really important because, psychologically we’ve got a little break now. We probably did enough, at the end, to get three points. We had some good chances at the end. We’re disappointed that we didn’t get three points but pleased that we’ve stopped that run.”
Rapids forward Dominique Badji opened the scoring in the 7th minute, collecting a throughball from Rapids defender Tommy Smith and sending a low shot past Fire goalkeeper Richard Sanchez to give Colorado the 1-0 lead.
Smith doubled the lead to 2-0 in the 15th minute, heading an effort into goal on a cross from Jack Price. It marked Smith’s goal for Colorado and his first in MLS.
“To be honest I didn’t see much out of it because it came out of the sun,” Smith said of the goal. “But I knew Pricey put it in a good area and I just had to get contact on it.”
Despite conceding the pair of early goals, Chicago fought back. Led by midfielder Aleksandar Katai, the visitors scored back-to-back goals to tie the match. In the 21st minute, Katai’s cross deflected off Rapids defender Danny Wilson into Colorado’s goal, cutting the lead to 2-1. Three minutes later, Katai’s curling shot from outside the box beat Tim Howard to tie the match at 2-2.
“It was a very nice goal, but it’s not enough because we are going home with one point,” Katai said of the effort. “It would be nicer if we were going home with three points.”
Smith almost put Colorado back in front just before the half, but his headed effort off a Price free kick went wide of the mark.
“It was two goals of our own making,” Smith said of the first half defensive effort from Colorado. “They didn’t do much to carve us open, so we’re disappointed in those, but I think it was just important that we didn’t lose today.”
Both sides entered the half level in shots (5) and shots on target (2), but Chicago held the edge in possession with 56 percent of the ball in the stanza.
The Fire continued to control possession in the second half, but both sides had prime opportunities to go in front.
Brandt Bronico, Diego Campos, and Bastian Schweinsteiger all had opportunities on goal just before the 80th minute, but none could find the mark.
Chicago went down to 10 men in the 82nd minute when Johan Kappelhof was sent off with a second yellow due to dangerous play. The decision was made by head referee José Carlos Rivero with the assistance of the VAR.
In extra time, Rapids forward Joe Mason’s left footed shot from the center of the box was saved by Sanchez. An additional effort shortly after from Wilson was saved.
Despite the late pressure from Colorado, Chicago’s defense held as the visitors took home a road point.
“This is disappointment,” Fire head coach Veljko Paunović said following the result. “Disappointment for many reasons. This is not the image that we want and we’ve got to make changes in our attitude and in our behavior. Especially within the game.”
For the Rapids, however, it largely marked a feeling of relief following eight-straight losses in league play and nine-straight across all competitions.
“We’ve stopped the rut now,” said Rapids midfielder Jack Price. “It was embarrassing for the lads, for the staff. It wasn’t nice for the fans to go through that. Obviously, we’ve stopped that now so we need to build a bit of confidence. We’re looking forward to the next game now.”
Colorado will now face a 10-day break from league play before it resumes action at home against Minnesota United FC on June 23. The Fire will return to action next Wednesday on the road against Atlanta United in the U.S. Open Cup before traveling to Seattle to face the Sounders next Saturday.
The post Colorado Rapids snap 8-game losing streak with 2-2 draw against Chicago Fire appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Marco Cummings, Pro Soccer USA
As the most diverse sports league in the world, MLS sees players from six countries set to participate in World Cup in Russia
NEW YORK (Thursday, June 14, 2018) – The 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia begins today, and for Major League Soccer’s contingent of 19 players, representing six countries, it is a chance to be immortalized in history books during the greatest sporting event in the world.
Celebrations were in full swing Wednesday as FIFA announced that the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, but now all eyes turn to this year’s tournament as the globe halts to watch the world’s game.
MLS PLAYERS IN 2018 FIFA WORLD CUP
COSTA RICA (6): Francisco Calvo (Minnesota United FC), David Guzmán (Portland Timbers), Rónald Matarrita (New York City FC), Marco Ureña (Los Angeles Football Club), Rodney Wallace (New York City FC), Kendall Waston (Vancouver Whitecaps FC)
EGYPT (1): Omar Gaber (Los Angeles Football Club)
MEXICO (3): Giovani dos Santos (LA Galaxy), Jonathan dos Santos (LA Galaxy), Carlos Vela (Los Angeles Football Club)
PANAMA (6): Harold Cummings (San Jose Earthquakes), Fidel Escobar (New York Red Bulls), Anibal Godoy (San Jose Earthquakes), Adolfo Machado (Houston Dynamo), Michael Murillo (New York Red Bulls), Román Torres (Seattle Sounders FC)
PERU (2): Andy Polo (Portland Timbers), Yoshi Yotún (Orlando City SC)
SWEDEN (1): Gustav Svensson (Seattle Sounders FC)
MLS: The World’s Most Diverse Sports League: As the league of choice for many top players, MLS is the most diverse sports league in the world with players from more than 70 countries competing in 2018. Again leading the charge in diversity (as determined by birthplace) in the North American sports landscape, from a pool of 637 current players, 72 countries are represented in MLS compared with the second-most diverse league, the NBA, that boasts players from 45 countries.
Among those 637 players, 234 have been capped by their national teams and a total of 27 players from 11 FIFA World Cup-bound countries played a part in their respective nations’ World Cup Qualifiers during 2017.
|
League (year) |
Total # of Players |
Players Born Abroad (% born outside U.S.A. & Canada) |
Countries Represented (incl. USA & Canada) |
Average Age of All Players (in years) |
|
MLS (2018) |
637 |
315 (49.4%) |
72 |
25.36 |
|
MLB (2017) |
1087 |
326 (29.9%) |
24 |
28.33 |
|
NHL (2017-2018) |
779 |
225 (28.8%) |
22 |
27.17 |
|
NBA (2017-2018) |
496 |
96 (19.4%) |
47 |
26.22 |
|
NFL (2017) |
2104 |
57 (2.7%) |
26 |
26.36 |
Six-nation representation: For a second straight World Cup, six nations have current MLS players on their rosters, which, alongside the 2014 tournament, ties for the most in league history. The country representation includes six MLS players on both Costa Rica and Panama, three for Mexico, two for Peru and one each for Egypt and Sweden. Two other countries include former MLS players, with Australia featuring former New York Red Bulls forward Tim Cahill and former Montreal Impact midfielder Blerim Džemaili representing Switzerland.
Sixteen are new to the big stage: A total of 16 players will be competing in their first FIFA World Cup. Six players among this group are part of Panama’s first trip to the World Cup, including Seattle Sounders FC defender Román Torres, whose late goal against Costa Rica in the finale of the qualifying stage propelled his nation to Russia.
Three World Cup returnees: The MLS pool features three players who have competed at the World Cup previously, led by the LA Galaxy’s Giovani dos Santos, who is headed to his third World Cup for Mexico (2010, 2014, 2018). Dos Santos and the Los Angeles Football Club’s Carlos Vela (in his second World Cup appearance) were teammates on Mexico’s 2010 squad. LAFC forward Marco Ureña also prepares for his second World Cup appearance after representing Costa Rica at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
Dos Santos duo marks first MLS brother pairing in World Cup: Heading into the 2018 FIFA World Cup, there have been 58 individual brothers who have played in FIFA World Cup history, either in the same tournament or in different tournaments. This year is unique one for MLS as the LA Galaxy’s Jonathan dos Santos and Giovani dos Santos will play alongside each other for Mexico. This year’s World Cup includes four sets of brothers: the dos Santos (Mexico), Eden and Thorgan Hazard (Belgium), Noureddine and Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco), and Anton and Alexei Miranchuk (Russia). Two sets of brothers have won the World Cup alongside each other: Germany’s Ottmar and Fritz Walter (1954) and England’s Bobby and Jack Charlton (1966).
FIFA World Cup Winners: Only 422 players throughout history have lifted the world’s most coveted trophy, two of whom currently play in MLS in the Chicago Fire’s Bastian Schweinsteiger (Germany, 2014) and New York City FC’s David Villa (Spain, 2010). All-time, 11 World Cup winners have played on MLS squads yet none have won both the World Cup and MLS Cup in the same year. The 19 MLS players headed to Russia have the opportunity to join some illustrious company, for both country and club.
FLASHBACK TO QUALIFYING:
LA trio leads Mexico to most successful qualifying run: Mexico clinched its trip to Russia 2018 with several qualifying matches to spare following a 1-0 win against Panama on Sept. 1, 2017. It marked Mexico’s earliest World Cup qualification clinch in the country’s history. The Los Angeles Football Club’s first signing, Carlos Vela, and LA Galaxy brothers Giovani dos Santos and Jonathan dos Santos all featured during the qualifying stage to help Mexico earn its 16th FIFA World Cup appearance.
Torres boosts Panama to first World Cup: Seattle Sounders FC defender Román Torres is being hailed a hero after scoring the winning goal that lifted Panama to its first-ever FIFA World Cup. The last-minute drama took place on Oct. 10, 2017, when Torres’ right-footed strike in the 88th minute completed a 2-1 rally victory over favorited Costa Rica to book Panama’s spot in Russia.
Here is how to watch all Major League Soccer matches live in Week 16 on TV or streaming. You can follow along with our live scores and stats throughout the weekend as well.
Wednesday, June 13
| TIME(EST) | TEAM | TV | Live stream |
| 7:30 p.m. | Columbus v Atlanta | CLB: CW Columbus, Spectrum Sports OH, BCSN2; ATL: FOX Sports South | ESPN+, Direct Kick, MLS LIVE on DAZN |
| 7:30 p.m. | Montreal v Orlando | ORL: TV27, YouTube TV [Orlando region only]; CAN: TVAS | ESPN+, Direct Kick |
| 8 p.m. | NY Red Bulls v Seattle | RBNY: MSG; SEA: JOEtv, YouTube TV [Seattle region only] | ESPN+, Direct Kick, MLS LIVE on DAZN |
| 8 p.m. | Toronto v DC United | DC: NewsChannel 8; CAN: TSN 1/4/5 | ESPN+, Direct Kick |
| 9 p.m. | Colorado v Chicago | COL: Altitude; CHI: ESPN+ | ESPN+, Direct Kick, MLS LIVE on DAZN |
| 10:30 p.m. | San Jose v New England | SJ: NBC Sports Bay Area; NE: NBC Sports Boston | ESPN+, Direct Kick, MLS LIVE on DAZN |
The post Watch MLS live on TV, streaming in Week 16 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Alicia DelGallo, Pro Soccer USA
MLS Homegrown Team to face Tigres UANL Under-20 Champions in 2018 MLS Homegrown Game presented by Energizer®
Homegrown Team to face defending Mexican league U-20 Champions live on UDN and Twitter on July 31;
Atlanta United Academy Director to coach Homegrown Team
NEW YORK (June 12, 2018) – Major League Soccer today announced that the MLS Homegrown Team will take on Tigres UANL, the reigning Mexican league’s Under-20 champion, in the fifth annual MLS Homegrown Game presented by Energizer® on July 31 at 8 p.m. ET at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground, part of a week of events during 2018 MLS All-Star Atlanta. In addition to the live national broadcast on Univision Deportes Network (UDN), the MLS Homegrown Game will be streamed live on Twitter for the first time in the history of the event.
Tickets, starting at $15, may be purchased on Ticketmaster.com and includes entrance to the Special Olympics Unified Sports® All-Star Soccer Match presented by MLS WORKS and ESPN, held immediately prior at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Training Ground. Tickets are now available by CLICKING HERE.
The MLS Homegrown Game presented by Energizer® is the latest initiative between Major League Soccer and Liga MX after the two leagues announced an increased partnership in March including a focus on youth development highlighted by an annual showcase match. Joining a list of formidable opponents to participate in the MLS Homegrown Game, Tigres UANL’s Under-20 team brings an accomplished track record to the match. The club captured the Liga MX Under-20 title last month and features numerous players that have received time with both the Tigres reserve squad and the first team side that has captured the Liga MX title in three out of the previous six tournaments.
Atlanta United Academy Director Tony Annan will serve as the head coach for the Homegrown Team against Tigres. Annan, who helped build Atlanta’s academy from the ground up and brings over 20 years of youth development experience to the match, is one of only six coaches to hold licenses from the U.S. Soccer Academy Director’s Course and the Elite Formation Coaching License course (EFCL). With a focus on cultivating talented academy products, Annan has helped Atlanta identify and develop standout youth players from the academy to the first team, coaching the club’s U-17 squad to a national title in the first year of the program.
CLICK HERE for media assets including video soundbytes from Atlanta United Academy Director Tony Annan
One of the many highly anticipated events during the week of events surrounding 2018 MLS All-Star Atlanta, the MLS Homegrown Game presented by Energizer® provides an annual platform in which to showcase MLS’ burgeoning young talent and demonstrate the growth of the League’s youth development system. MLS academies continue to attract and cultivate topflight prospects and have now produced over 150 Homegrown Players who have signed professional contracts with MLS clubs. Vital to the long-term success of their clubs, Homegrown Players now serve more important and visible roles than ever, with academy products logging a record number of goals, assists, minutes and games played in 2017. Of note, the 94 assists compiled by Homegrown Players in 2017 is more than double the total compared to 2016.
Homegrown Players have also become significant contributors at the international level with the U.S. and Canadian youth and senior national teams relying on some of the league’s most exciting and promising young players. In the past year, 13 current Homegrown standouts have been called to represent the U.S. Men’s National Team, including MLS Homegrown Game alumnus Tyler Adams (New York Red Bulls), Kellyn Acosta (FC Dallas) and Justen Glad (Real Salt Lake). In addition, 11 current Homegrown Players played for the United States in the 2017 FIFA Under-20 World Cup while seven Homegrown Players represented the U.S. at the 2017 FIFA Under-17 World Cup. Outside of the U.S., five Homegrown Players were called to represent the Canada Men’s National Team at the 2017 Concacaf Gold Cup, with Alphonso Davies (Vancouver Whitecaps FC) winning the tournament’s golden boot.
“The continued growth of Major League Soccer’s youth academy system and development of the future stars of the sport remain at the forefront of the league’s long-term initiatives,” said Todd Durbin, Executive Vice President of Player Relations and Competition. “The MLS Homegrown Game offers a unique opportunity to showcase the talent our clubs have produced. We are excited to have the Tigres Under-20 team as this year’s opponent in another example of how MLS continues to build upon its partnership with Liga MX in the area of youth development.”
MLS Homegrown Players are a specialized group of players that have been a member of an MLS club’s youth development program for at least one year and have met the necessary training and retention requirements. Players that meet those qualifications can sign a professional contract with the club’s senior team without being subject to the SuperDraft.
Media planning to cover the MLS Homegrown Game presented by Energizer®, the Special Olympics Unified Sports All-Star Soccer Match presented by MLS WORKS and ESPN, along with the 2018 MLS All-Star Game may now apply for credentials by CLICKING HERE.
MLS All-Stadium credentials, team season credentials and credentials from previous MLS and SUM events will not be recognized for any of the media events surrounding the All-Star Game. Credential applications must be received by Wednesday, July 18.
MLS Homegrown Game History
2017: MLS Homegrown Team 2-2 Chivas de Guadalajara U-20s
2016: MLS Homegrown Team 0-1 Mexico U-20s
2015: MLS Homegrown Team 1(4)-1(5) Club América U-20s
2014: MLS Homegrown Team 0–0 Portland Timbers U-23s
ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE SOCCER
Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer features 26 clubs throughout the United States and Canada, including future expansion teams in Nashville, Miami and Cincinnati. The League plans to have 28 clubs in the coming years. For more information about MLS, visit www.MLSsoccer.com.
ABOUT ENERGIZER
Energizer Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: ENR), headquartered in St. Louis, MO, is one of the world's largest manufacturers of primary batteries and portable lighting products and is anchored by its two globally recognized brands Energizer® and EVEREADY®. Energizer is also a leading designer and marketer of automotive fragrance and appearance products from recognized brands such as Refresh Your Car!®, California Scents®, Driven®, Bahama & Co.®, LEXOL® and Eagle One®. Visit http://www.energizerholdings.com for more details.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC Midfielder Alphonso Davies Voted Alcatel MLS Player of the Week
NEW YORK (Tuesday, June 12, 2018) – Vancouver Whitecaps FC midfielder Alphonso Davies was voted the Alcatel Major League Soccer Player of the Week by the North American Soccer Reporters (NASR) for the 15th week of the 2018 MLS season.
Vancouver extended its unbeaten streak to six matches with a 5-2 victory over Orlando City SC at BC Place on Saturday, with Davies netting one goal and adding three assists to help lift the club. With the outstanding performance, the 17-year-old Davies became the youngest player in league history to record three assists in a match and the youngest player to factor into a combined four goals and assists, according to Elias Sports Bureau. On the season, Davies has two goals and seven assists, the latter tied for third in MLS. Whitecaps FC sit fourth in the Western Conference with 23 points (6-5-5 overall record).
Davies’ tremendous pace was on full display during a Vancouver counter in the 36th minute, with the midfielder dribbling past multiple defenders before displaying some fancy footwork in the box. The Canada National Team midfielder then laid the ball off to Kei Kamara, setting up the forward’s strike to the center of goal to give Whitecaps FC a 1-0 lead (Watch Assist). Following an Orlando equalizer, Davies would reclaim Vancouver’s advantage capitalizing off goalkeeper Joe Bendik’s deflection with a close-range finish in the 76th minute for a 2-1 advantage (Watch Goal).
Whitecaps FC continued a relentless attack, with Davies’s speed once again proving to be a difference maker as he outran an Orlando defender on the left flank before setting up Yordy Reyna’s easy finish in the center of the box in the 87th minute for a 4-1 lead (Watch Assist). Davies finished a historic day when recording his third assist in the 90th minute on Nicolás Mezquida’s strike, becoming the first Vancouver Whitecaps FC player to record three assists in one match (Watch Assist).
Vancouver Whitecaps FC return to MLS regular season action on Saturday, June 23 to face the Philadelphia Union at Talen Energy Stadium (5:00 p.m. ET, TSN1 / TSN5 / ESPN+).
The Alcatel MLS Player of the Week is chosen each week of the regular season by members of the North American Soccer Reporters. The organization includes print, television, radio and online journalists who cover domestic men's soccer in the United States and Canada. Learn more about the NASR and apply to join at https://www.facebook.com/soccerreporters/.
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A first-half goal from Dynamo midfielder Tomas Martinez in the 30th minute opened the scoring and a penalty from Mauro Manotas six minutes later opened up a 2-0 Houston lead against a bunkering Colorado as the Houston Dynamo defeated the Colorado Rapids at BBVA Compass Stadium on Saturday night.
Here are three takeaways from Houston’s 2-0 win over the Colorado Rapids:
Historic lows now approaching league marks
As outlined last week following Colorado’s 2-1 loss to Vancouver, the Colorado Rapids’ winless streak is a historic one in terms of club record lows. It became official on Saturday as the Rapids reached an eight-game winless streak in league play – a club record.
With its latest loss, Colorado’s points per game total now stands at 0.62, still placing the team in danger of breaking the mark for worst ever campaign points total in club history (29) and the worst total in the post-MLS shootout era (33).
Colorado’s current eight-game winless streak places them in a fourth-place tie for longest all-time losing streaks in MLS (New England, 2014).
These totals would also place Colorado among the top 10 worst teams in MLS history.
The positive? Colorado has an opportunity to avoid a club record winless streak (14) if it secures a win within the next five games.
Offense a legitimate problem for Colorado
Despite having not won a game for eight straight entering Saturday’s match with Houston, Anthony Hudson’s side could hang its hat on the fact that the team did show signs of an improved offense this season. Colorado had only been shutout in four games prior to Saturday – including one against RSL where Tim Howard was sent off, but the team held on for 80 minutes before conceding.
But in Saturday night’s match, Colorado was truly dominated, managing just two shots (one on target) in the 90 minutes. Including U.S. Open Cup play, it marked the second-straight shutout for Colorado, which has only managed a single shot on-target in over 180 minutes of play.
With top scorer Dominique Badji sidelined by suspension (yellow card accumulation), the frustration boiled over for lone striker Yannick Boli, who was sent off with a first half red card.
Badji will return Wednesday for Colorado’s home match against Chicago, but the Rapids need to find production from other sources.
Hairston an important cog
For all the futility present during Colorado’s eight games winless in league play, Rapids fans have a glimmer of hope in seeing top choice right wingback return to action in MLS play. Hairston managed 79 minutes of action before being subbed off in favor of Jack McBean, but racked up five recoveries, two defensive clearances and a block of DeMarcus Beasley’s shot in the 68th minute.
“I feel pretty good coming back, just trying to get as fit as possible,” Hairston said of his ongoing return from a knee injury. “Fitness is definitely an important piece to playing the way the coaching staff wants us to play, but I can’t say I played well with the team. I try to do whatever I can to push the team forward.”
On the loss, Hairston said, “I think this is a game I have to correct and help out the team as we move forward.”
The post Three takeaways from Colorado’s 2-0 loss to the Houston Dynamo appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Marco Cummings, Pro Soccer USA
HOUSTON – Two first-half goals in a span of six minutes sealed the Houston Dynamo’s sixth win of the season — and third consecutive at home — as the Orange swiftly handled the Colorado Rapids 2-0 on Star Wars Night.
The game got off to a slow start for Houston (6-5-3, 21 points) and it’s just how head coach Wilmer Cabrera expected it to be.
“We knew tonight was going to be a tough match with a team that is normally going to be deep, waiting with five in the back and two or three defensive midfielders and only one player up top,” Cabrera said.
The game picked up steam in the 25th minute and it started when Andrew Wenger, who was making his return to the pitch after being a late-game scratch against New York City FC in late May, had to be replaced after feeling some tightness in his left calf.
Replacing Wenger was Adam Lundqvist, and that’s when Houston put their game on hyperspeed and gave the announced 16,058 in attendance, some in Star Wars attire, much to cheer about.
On Star Wars night, the Houston Dynamo defeated the dark side [Colorado Rapids] 2-0 to send their fans home happy to a galaxy far, far away. (Courtesy of Houston Dynamo)
With the Rapids sitting back, Houston pressured them high up the field and were rewarded for their efforts in the 30th minute.
Tomás Martinez took the ball from Rapids midfielder Johan Bloomberg just outside the box and then proceeded to dance around Rapids defenders Deklan Wynne and Danny Wilson before ripping off a left-footed shot
Rapids ‘keeper Tim Howard made a kick-save, but unfortunately for him, the rebound went straight to Martinez, who shot it back for the game’s first goal.
The goal was extra special for Martinez, who’s grandparents flew in from Argentina to see him play in tonight’s game.
Five minutes after Martinez’s goal, and with La Naranja rolling, DaMarcus Beasley received a pass from Romell Quioto and got into the box but before the veteran defender could get to it, Bloomberg brought him down. The referee immediately pointed to the spot.
[See image gallery at appserver-b85ebf07.c.pantheon-dmz.internal]Mauro Manotas, who’s been on a scoring slump, calmly stepped up and converted the penalty to put Houston up 2-0. Aside from doubling up their lead, the goal also marks the 2oth game out of 24 that Houston scores two or more goals since Cabrera became the head coach.
“Today was a game to close out the scoring slump that I had been having,” Manotas said. “Once they brought Beasley down I grabbed the ball with confidence and stepped up and hit it well.”
If the Dynamo were rolling after the first goal, after the second the Orange were “cruising” Cabrera said. But the fireworks were far from done in the first half.
Four minutes into stoppage time, Rapids forward Yannick Boli was shielding the ball from Dynamo centerback Leonardo when Boli raised his hands and slapped Leonardo in the face. The referee had no choice but to show Boli a straight red.
Despite having a man advantage for an entire half, La Naranja could not add to its lead, but it wasn’t for lack of trying. Houston hit the woodwork twice and might have easily added a third goal if not for Tim Howard.
Houston settled for the 2-0 win and while it couldn’t add to its lead, Houston managed a clean sheet for the first time since its opening game win over Atlanta. For Dynamo ‘keeper Joe Willis, it’s his first of the year.
“It’s been a while since we’ve kept a clean sheet so personally for me, it’s good for my confidence,” Willis said. “But for the team also, it’s good for us moving forward.”
Getting the clean sheet “is a turning point” for the Dynamo, Cabrera noted. He also said he hopes his team grasps that it can play good defense and close games out.
With the FIFA break set to start, the next MLS regular-season game for the Dynamo is at Western Conference nemesis Sporting KC on June 23. But before that, Houston has a date with Minnesota United in the fifth round of the U.S. Open Cup on Monday, June 18.
The post Houston Dynamo blast Colorado Rapids 2-0 for third consecutive home win appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Jesus Acevedo Jr., Pro Soccer USA
COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Stefan Aigner is no longer a member of the Colorado Rapids.
Aigner and the Rapids agreed to mutually terminate his three-and-a-half-year contract, the club announced Friday.
A highly-touted signing acquired from German club 1860 Munich, Aigner, 29, signed with the Rapids last July, making nine appearances (five starts) for Colorado in 2017, scoring two goals and chipping in an assist.
At more than $845,885 in compensation for 2018, Aigner was the fourth-highest paid player on the team.
But under current head coach Anthony Hudson, the midfielder had featured in just 11 minutes of action – with the manager citing a variety of reasons including preseason injury and a lack of fitness as reasons for Aigner’s absence from the lineup.
Hudson gave a lengthy interview two weeks ago with local Denver TV station 9News (KUSA) detailing his side of the situation with Aigner, but the midfielder had been made unavailable to reporters to get the other side of the story.
“I don’t know. It’s strange. I don’t know,” Hudson told Pro Soccer USA on what had changed with Aigner’s situation since being praised by Rapids GM Padraig Smith for his preseason training regimen with Bundesliga side Hoffenheim in the preseason.
https://www.prosoccerusa.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/Hudson-on-Aigner.m4a“The bottom line is we want players here that will fight for the club, want to fight for the team and be here for the team,” Hudson continued. “I just don’t think that we’ve seen that.”
Following Wednesday night’s 2-0 elimination loss to Nashville SC in U.S. Open Cup play, the Rapids are now on a run of eight-straight losses across all competitions. Colorado is currently in Houston in preparation for Saturday night’s match against the Houston Dynamo.
The post Stefan Aigner, Colorado Rapids agree to mutually part ways appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.
Original author: Marco Cummings, Pro Soccer USA
