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In a wild match that had it all, the Colorado Rapids drew the Portland Timbers 2-2 in their first visit to the newly remodeled Providence Park. Portland too an early 1-0 lead in the 27th minute on a Tommy Smith own goal before Jonathan Lewis responded a minute later to level the match at 1-1.

In the second half, the Timbers went down to 10 men on a straight red card foul by Julio Cascante. Despite this, Portland took a 2-1 lead in the 63rd minute on a Diego Valeri penalty kick following a handball assessed to Rapids defender Lalas Abubakar. But substitute Sam Nicholson helped the Rapids level the match again at 2-2 with his frozen rope effort in the 76th minute as both teams left with a point.

Here are three takeaways from the Colorado Rapids’ 2-2 draw with Portland:

Terrible Tommy

After re-affirming himself as a consistent part of the Rapids defense in the preferred centerback pairing alongside Lalas Abubakar under interim head coach Conor Casey, Tommy Smith had one of his poorest performances of the season on Saturday night. Smith accumulated a yellow card and an own goal early in the match, which gave the Timbers a 1-0 lead before Colorado’s equalizer.

After the match Rapids interim head coach Conor Casey said Colorado was just “one play away” from a win, referring to the numerous missed opportunities in the match, but if the Rapids were to erase just one from this match, the own goal would probably be at the top of the list.

Wing man is back

It’s been a small sample size for winger Jonathan Lewis since arriving in Colorado at the trade deadline, but it’s been an impressive one. Lewis only recently returned to the Rapids following an extended period with the U.S. Men’s National Team throughout their Gold Cup run, but in his first game back, made an immediate impact.

On the ensuing attack following Tommy Smith’s own goal, Lewis injected life back into Colorado with an equalizer in the 28th minute. Colorado’s attack awakened, and nearly went ahead just before halftime as Lewis nearly became the assist man on a dangerous shot from Andre Shinyashiki, but back to back saves from Steve Clark kept the game at 1-1.

The goal marked the third in four appearances for Lewis since joining Colorado in May.

“It lifted the team spirit,” Lewis said of his goal. “We scored an own goal, but it lifted the team spirit. Like I said, today we were unlucky, but this is a hard place to play and we got a point. We should have come out with a win, but we have to be happy with a point.”

A bit of everything

In the end, neither team will feel it was a fair result, but the 2-2 draw wasn’t short of entertainment.

Own goals, handballs, red cards, penalty kicks and goalkeepers standing on their heads.

Of note, Steve Clark put forth a Man of the Match effort in net for Portland, ending the match with six saves. It helped preserve a point for the hosts after going down to 10-men following Julio Cascante’s red card.

“I don’t know if it’s a disappointing result looking at the way the conditions and situation went,” said Timbers head coach Giovanni Savarese. “I think maybe when you think it’s a home match and you want to always win at home, definitely we want to have three points. But due to the circumstances of the match I think actually the point was important, was good.”

The Timbers will feel hard done by earning just a point at home, but it helped them hold serve in the standings against Colorado, which remains in last place in the Western Conference.

Conor Casey continues to provide hope for Colorado, however, which has continued to earn points at a clip of nearly 1.64 points per match in his 11 matches at the helm as interim head coach. It’s a mark that alone would stand against other teams in the West as playoff worthy, if not for the abysmal start under former head coach Anthony Hudson.

“I thought it was a really exciting and entertaining game,” Casey said postgame. “It was a great show for the fans and a great atmosphere and a good amount of football. We were a bit disappointed in the end. I think we had enough chances to win, a lot of very good chances and a bit of a dubious penalty kick.”

Nonetheless, the Rapids are still within striking distance of the final playoff spot in the West, having games in hand over several teams. It should make for a wild finish as teams fight for playoffs as the MLS regular season inches towards its conclusion.

The post Timbers Tussle: Three Takeaways from the Colorado Rapids’ 2-2 draw in Portland appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Colorado midfielder Sam Nicholson scored the equalizer in the 76th minute, helping the Rapids earn a 2-2 draw with the Portland Timbers on Saturday night.

Nicholson’s first goal of the season was a left-footed strike from the top of the box that left Timbers goalkeeper Steve Clark flat-footed.

It came after Portland took a one-goal lead in the 63rd when Diego Valeri made a penalty kick, which was the result of a Colorado hand ball.

The first goal of the back-and-forth match came in the 27th minute when Rapids defender Tommy Smith scored an own goal. His header intended to clear Valeri’s corner kick went past Colorado goalkeeper Tim Howard into the back of the net.

During the celebration, Timbers players rushed over and crowded around coach Gio Saverese, whose father, Carlo Savarese, died earlier Saturday.

Colorado responded a minute later.

Midfielder Jonathan Lewis settled a cross deflected out by the Timbers defense in the center of the box and scored with a right-footed line drive in the 28th. It was Lewis’ first start since returning from playing with the U.S. men’s national team during the Gold Cup. The 22-year-old had scored twice in three starts before his national team call-up.

Howard kept it tied with a diving one-handed effort on a shot by Sebastian Blanco two minutes later. The Rapids turned a counter-attack into a 2-on-1 opportunity in the 45th, but Portland goalkeeper Steve Clark made back-to-back saves, the second a one-handed dive blocking Kei Kamara’s header.

Portland center back Julio Cascante was given a straight red card in the 56th minute for a slide tackle from behind on Kamara.

The teams played to a 3-3 draw on March 2 to open MLS regular season in Colorado.

The post Rapids, Timbers play to 2-2 draw in Portland appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Get your popcorn ready. 

Rivalry clashes headline the Week 19 slate in Major League Soccer, with the Cali Clasico, 401 Derby and Hudson River Derby all taking place over three days. 

In addition to the rivalry matches, there are a few other intriguing bouts that could change the complexion of the playoff races in each conference. 

A majority of the teams will be playing on a full week’s rest, while a handful of sides are trying to either continue momentum or bounce back from domestic cup performances midweek. 

MLS Week 19 Schedule

Friday, July 12

New England Revolution at DC United (7 p.m. ET, ESPN) 

Los Angeles FC at Houston Dynamo (9 p.m. ET, UniMas) 

San Jose Earthquakes at LA Galaxy (11 p.m. ET, UniMas) 

Saturday, July 13

Toronto FC at Montreal Impact (7:30 p.m. ET, TVA Sport, ESPN+)

Columbus Crew at Orlando City (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

FC Cincinnati at Chicago Fire (8 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

FC Dallas at Minnesota United (8 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Philadelphia Union at Real Salt Lake (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Sporting Kansas City at Vancouver Whitecaps (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Colorado Rapids at Portland Timbers (11 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Sunday, July 14

Atlanta United at Seattle Sounders (3:55 p.m. ET, ESPN) 

New York City FC at New York Red Bulls (6:30 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Things to Watch 

1. Can the Revs contain Rooney without Acosta? 

May 25, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; D.C. United midfielder Luciano Acosta (10) and New England Revolution midfielder Luis Caicedo (27) battle for the ball during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports

In the two games in which Luciano Acosta has not started for DC United, the Black and Red have failed to score a goal.

Ben Olsen’s side will be without its No. 10 on Friday due to a red-card suspension, which puts more pressure on Wayne Rooney to produce in the final third. 

In the first meeting between DC and New England, Rooney put two of his six shots on target, and in order to keep D.C. off the scoreboard at Audi Field, the Revs have to limit those numbers. 

Although the Revs are in good form under Bruce Arena, they have conceded one goal in each of their past five games. 

The opportunity is there for the Revs to take three points from Audi Field without Acosta on the field, but in order to do so, their defensive production must improve.

2. How does LAFC recover?

Apr 21, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; LAFC forward Christian Ramirez (21) celebrates with teammates Mark-Anthony Kayel (14), Jordan Harvey (3) and Carlos Vela (10) after scoring a goal in the second half at Banc of California Stadium. LAFC defeated the Sounders 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Los Angeles FC was handed zero favors with its schedule this week.

After falling to Portland at home in the U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, the Black and Gold have to travel to BBVA Compass Stadium for a Friday clash with the Houston Dynamo. 

The short rest combined with the sweltering heat in Houston could put Bob Bradley’s side in a spot of difficulty.

Since the second-year side used most of its starters on Wednesday, there should be some squad rotation, which will either lead to a flexing of the team’s depth, or Houston’s attack pouncing for a handful of goals. 

3. Can Galaxy regain foothold in Cali Clasico? 

Jul 4, 2019; Carson, CA, USA; LA Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (9) and Toronto FC midfielder Richie Laryea (22) battle for the ball in the second half at Dignity Health Sports Park. The Gakaxy defeated Tornto FC 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

In the last six Cali Clasico matches, the LA Galaxy have one victory.

San Jose won the meeting at Stanford Stadium on June 29 in dominant fashion, and it has taken two other league games and a U.S. Open Cup match in 2017 from the Galaxy. 

The good news for the Galaxy is they won their last home meeting with the Quakes and have two wins in their last three games. 

In the first Cali Clasico of the season, San Jose’s attack overwhelmed the Galaxy defense, with Vako, Magnus Eriksson and Chris Wondolowski all playing active roles in the final third. 

Add in Danny Hoesen, who scored the game-winning goal on Saturday against Real Salt Lake, and you have a strike force that will be hard to contain.

The Galaxy have two clean sheets in their last two wins, but now they have to prove they have learned from the June 29 thumping and earn a victory to potentially gain ground on LAFC in the Western Conference standings. 

4. Will home team reign supreme in 401 Derby? 

Jul 6, 2019; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Impact forward Anthony Jackson-Hamel (11) runs with the ball against Minnesota United during the first half at Stade Saputo. Mandatory Credit: Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports

We’ll keep this one simple. 

The last four 401 derbies in league play have been won by the home team. Montreal is 5-3-1 at Stade Saputo and Toronto FC is 2-5-2 away from BMO Field. 

In addition to those numbers, the road team has scored once in the last four league meetings between the Impact and TFC.

It seems pretty straightforward that the Impact will win this game, so because this is MLS, TFC will somehow prevail. 

5. Can the Crew finally spring to life? 

Jun 29, 2019; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Crew SC midfielder David Guzman (right) looks for a call against Orlando City SC midfielder Oriol Rosell (20) during the second half at MAPFRE Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports

We’ve been asking this question in many different varieties for the last month.

The Columbus Crew have one point since May 11. Yes, you read that right, one point in the past eight games. 

To make matters worse, Caleb Porter’s team has the worst scoring record in MLS with 17 goals. The Crew tried to light a spark in attack by making a slew of moves after the opening of the secondary transfer window on Tuesday. 

In the long term, the acquisitions of Luis Díaz, Romario Williams and Jordan Hamilton could help, but on Saturday, the Crew need to benefit from the return of Gyasi Zardes against an Orlando City team riding an emotional high of advancing to the Open Cup semifinals in order to try and turn things back in a positive direction.

6. Goals expected in Bridgeview

Jul 3, 2019; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Fire forward C.J. Sapong (9) celebrates with teammates after scoring his second goal against Atlanta United during the first half at Bridgeview Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Fire and FC Cincinnati have combined to concede 73 goals in MLS play. 

If anything, Saturday’s clash at SeatGeek Stadium should be an exciting, goal-filled affair.

The Fire are coming off a topsy-turvy Week 18 in which they put five goals up on Atlanta United and were shutout by Sporting Kansas City, while FC Cincinnati dispatched of Houston by scoring on three occasions.

The combination of poor defense and a bit of desperation seeping in to surge up to the top seven in the East should at least make this one an interesting watch.

7. Future of the league on display at Allianz

Apr 27, 2019; Frisco, TX, USA; FC Dallas midfielder Paxton Pomykal (19) kicks the ball during the match against the San Jose Earthquakes at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

FC Dallas cleared the way for more Homegrown production when it sold Carlos Gruezo to Augsburg.

The combination of Edwin Cerrillo, Brandon Servania and Paxton Pomykal will be exciting to watch for the rest of the season, but they won’t be the only young stars on display when Luchi Gonzalez’s team visits Minnesota United on Saturday night. 

During their three-game league winning streak, the Loons have received contributions from rookie Hassani Dotson and second-year man Mason Toye. 

Of course, there will be some experienced players featuring in key roles as well, but if you want to watch the game from a different perspective, keep an eye on the qualities of the young stars on the field. 

8. Can RSL keep up strong home form? 

Sep 1, 2018; Sandy, UT, USA; Real Salt Lake midfielder Albert Rusnak (11) shoots and scores during the first half against the Los Angeles Galaxy at Rio Tinto Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports

Only Portland and FC Dallas have come into Rio Tinto Stadium and taken points off Real Salt Lake this season. 

During their four-game winning run in Sandy, the Claret and Cobalt have knocked off Toronto, Atlanta, Sporting KC and Columbus.

First-place Philadelphia presents a new challenge to Mike Petke’s team, especially with Andrew Wooten available for selection. 

The key to success for RSL will be Albert Rusnak’s ability to break through the Union’s midfield and challenge center backs Jack Elliott and Auston Trusty, who have been shaky in some stretches since the Gold Cup break ended. 

 9. Can Vancouver plug holes in its defense? 

Apr 17, 2019; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Whitecaps defender Ali Adnan (53) celebrates the win with goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau (16) after the end of the second half at BC Place. Mandatory Credit: Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports

The Vancouver Whitecaps have not earned a clean sheet in league play since May 10. 

During that nine-game stretch, the Whitecaps have been outscored 17-11 and won a single game.

Sporting Kansas City comes into BC Place on a wave of momentum following a weekend win over Chicago at home, but now Peter Vermes’ team has to put together a consistent string of results. 

Keep an eye on Gerso Fernandes, who was incredibly active in the victory over Chicago, and his movement around the Vancouver defense that gave up six goals to LAFC in Week 18.

If Gerso is able to matriculate his way through the Whitecaps defense to set up Dániel Sallói, Yohan Croizet and others, Vancouver could be in for a long night.

10. The Timbers freight train is rolling

Jul 7, 2019; New York, NY, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Sebastian Blanco (10) celebrates his goal with forward Brian Fernandez (7) during the first half against New York City FC at Yankee Stadium. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)

The loud noise you hear is the combination of Timber Joey’s chainsaw and the freight train rolling out of Portland with eyes on the Western Conference playoff places. 

The Timbers have been on a roll since returning from the Gold Cup break with wins over Houston, FC Dallas and NYCFC in league play and LAFC in the Open Cup. The only defeat in that span came from a rotated squad in Montreal. 

Colorado has the unfortunate pleasure of heading to Providence Park to face the in-form Timbers on Saturday night. 

If you stay up for this one, watch how well connected the Portland attack is, and then you can make your own conclusion regarding whether this is a team capable of returning to MLS Cup. 

11. Will Seattle take advantage of Atlanta’s recent defensive struggles? 

Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro (10) passes against the Orlando City SC during the first half at CenturyLink Field. (Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports)

Atlanta United rolls into CenturyLink Field off short rest from a Wednesday Open Cup game and with a defense that has been torn to shreds on a few occasions in recent weeks. 

The Five Stripes conceded eight goals in Week 18 to Chicago and the Red Bulls, and they face a Sounders side that has Nicolás Lodeiro coming off a two-goal performance and Jordan Morris returning to the squad. 

Seattle’s fresher legs and in-form attackers should have the advantage for 90 minutes, and the Sounders should be champing at the bit to be the next team to score on the Five Stripes since Frank de Boer’s team has given up 15 of its 23 goals conceded away from Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

12. BWP 

Apr 6, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls forward Bradley Wright-Phillips (99) reacts after a goal by midfielder Cristian Casseres Jr (23) against Minnesota United during the second half at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports

Bradley Wright-Phillips has been the dominant individual of the Hudson River Derby, and he is expected to play some type of role on Sunday.

Wright-Phillips scored a late equalizer against Atlanta United in Week 18 in his third consecutive substitute appearance. 

Regardless of when he enters the match, the 34-year-old forward should make an impact since he has 12 goals in his career against NYCFC. 

The Red Bulls are looking to pull back a bit of momentum in the rivalry after NYCFC won in July 2018 and the two sides played a draw in their last meeting

The post MLS Week 19 Preview: Three derbies; Portland looks to stay hot; Seattle welcomes Atlanta appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

It only took one week for Carlos Vela and Los Angeles FC to get back on track and reinforce their dominance on top of Major League Soccer. 

Vela’s historic scoring campaign has put him on top of the Major League Soccer Player Rankings for most of the 2019 season, and, after missing out on No. 1 last week, he has regained the position he has made home. 

LAFC once again has multiple players in the ranking of the top 20 in-form players in MLS, but it isn’t the only club with a handful of on-fire players at the moment.

Minnesota United’s recent scoring surge has led to three players joining the top 10 after Week 18, and the Loons trio is joined by a Philadelphia forward who can’t stop scoring and an Atlanta United midfielder lighting the net on fire. 

The MLS Player Rankings take into account the last four performances, with the most-recent outing carrying the most weight. 

20. Wayne Rooney, F, D.C. United

Previous Ranking: 8

Jul 4, 2019; Frisco, TX, USA; D.C. United forward Wayne Rooney (9) in action during the game between FC Dallas and the D.C. United at Toyota Stadium. (Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports)

Wayne Rooney’s descent has to do with D.C.’s failure to score against FC Dallas Thursday and the rise of a handful of in-form scorers. 

The English forward entered Week 18 with goals in each of his last two games, but only managed one shot in his 90-minute shift at Toyota Stadium.

Next up for Rooney and the Black-and-Red is a meeting with a New England side he scored against May 25. 

19. Diego Chara, M, Portland Timbers

Previous Ranking: 9

Mar 31, 2019; Carson, CA, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Diego Chara (21) moves the ball ahead of LA Galaxy midfielder Sebastian Lletget (17) during the second half at StubHub Center. (Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports)

Diego Chara only made a small cameo in Portland’s trip to Yankee Stadium on Sunday night. 

The Colombian, who turned in a strong performance in Week 17, played 14 minutes in the 1-0 victory, which is a rare result without Chara in the starting lineup. 

18. Carles Gil, M, New England Revolution

Previous Ranking: 19 

Jul 4, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; New England Revolution forward Carles Gil (22) gets ready for a penalty kick during the first half against the Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. (Russell Lansford-USA TODAY Sports)

Carles Gil added to his assist haul Thursday with a handout in the weather-delayed victory over the Colorado Rapids. 

The Spanish midfielder is now up to six assists in his inaugural seasons with the New England Revolution, and might be getting a new attacking weapon to partner with since the Gustavo Bou deal is close to being done. 

17. Brian White, F, New York Red Bulls

Previous Ranking: 17 

Brian White notched his third goal in four games for the New York Red Bulls in the chaotic 3-3 draw with Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

What a goal for Brian White! Don't sleep on those passes from Danny Royer and Alex Muyl! #RBNY pic.twitter.com/JoIrikJ71F

— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) July 7, 2019

The overall performance from the Red Bulls against their Eastern Conference rival was impressive after they were thumped on the road by the Houston Dynamo Wednesday. 

It will be interesting to see how White performs in the coming weeks with Bradley Wright-Phillips, who scored late on Sunday, working his way back into the squad. 

16. Nani, M, Orlando City SC

Previous Ranking: 12

Jul 7, 2019; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Orlando City forward Nani (17) against the Philadelphia Union during the second half at Talen Energy Stadium. (Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports)

Nani recorded an assist on Sunday in Orlando City’s 2-2 draw with Philadelphia, but didn’t do much else over the span of two games against the Union.

The Portuguese winger was taken off at halftime of Wednesday’s game at Exploria Stadium and didn’t start Sunday at Talen Energy Stadium.

The lack of playing time happened on purpose since the Lions are playing in the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals Wednesday against New York City FC. 

15. Nicolas Gaitan, M, Chicago Fire

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Jul 3, 2019; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Fire midfielder Nicolas Gaitan (20) controls the ball against the Atlanta United during the first half at Bridgeview Stadium. (Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports)

Nicolas Gaitan and the Chicago Fire experienced a rollercoaster Week 18 by trouncing Atlanta United at home on Wednesday and then falling flat in attack in a 1-0 loss Saturday at Sporting Kansas City. 

In the 5-1 midweek victory, Gaitan played a role in four of the five Fire goals with one tally and three handouts. 

Wednesday marked the third time Gaitan has recorded multiple assists in a game since joining the club in March. 

14. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, F, LA Galaxy

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

All it took was a two-goal performance against Toronto FC to boost Zlatan Ibrahimovic back into the Player Rankings. 

The game is over when @Ibra_official says it's over.

GOODNIGHT FROM THE LION pic.twitter.com/KTEosPUyxp

— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) July 5, 2019

The brace Thursday night was the third of the season for the Swedish forward, who is now up to 13 goals, nine away from his total a year ago. 

After failing to strike the back of the net in the first Cali Clasico of the season, Ibrahimovic and the LA Galaxy have a chance to enact revenge on the San Jose Earthquakes Friday night at Dignity Health Sports Park. 

13. Valentin Castellanos, M, New York City FC

Previous Ranking: 10 

Jun 29, 2019; New York, NY, USA; New York City FC midfielder Valentin Castellanos (11) celebrates his goal against the Philadelphia Union during the second half at Yankee Stadium. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)

After putting together his best game of the season in Week 17, NYCFC’s Valentin Castellanos turned in a productive shift in the midweek victory over the Seattle Sounders. 

Castellanos attempted nine shots, put two of them on target and handed out to key passes while earning an assist in the 3-0 win. 

The Argentinian cooled off a bit Sunday against Portland, as did the majority of the NYCFC attack.

12. Sam Johnson, F, Real Salt Lake

Previous Ranking: 13

Sam Johnson made the most of his 45-minute stint Wednesday night by netting his eighth goal of the season for Real Salt Lake.

Incredible pace from Sam Johnson and RSL leads 1-0! #RSLvCLB

As part of #SNHUgoals, for every RT of this goal @SNHU will donate $1 to @the_USO! pic.twitter.com/nbJVuAfImc

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 4, 2019

The Designated Player did not participate in Saturday’s game at San Jose, but he bumps up a spot on the list thanks to three goals in his last two starts.

11. Ethan Finlay, M, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Ethan Finlay is one of two in-form Minnesota United scorers to break into a high position after Week 18.

The 28-year-old has experienced an uptick in production since the Loons returned to action from the Concacaf Gold Cup break with two goals and two assists in three games. 

but what I do have are a very particular set of skills.

skills I have acquired over a very long career

skills that make me a nightmare for people like you pic.twitter.com/mIcAkl3qd5

— Minnesota United FC (@MNUFC) July 7, 2019

Finlay, who scored in the 3-2 win over Montreal, has scored on both of his shots on goal during that span. 

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

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

It’s hard not to place multiple LAFC players in the top 10 with the way it has been playing all season. 

The Canadian midfielder returned from the Gold Cup and continued to make a massive impact in the middle of the park for the best team in MLS. 

What a strike from Mark-Anthony Kaye! #LAFCvVAN // #SNHUgoals pic.twitter.com/wp06GXiPoh

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 7, 2019

Kaye also added to his scoring tally with his fourth goal of the season in Saturday’s 6-1 rout of the Vancouver Whitecaps.

9. Mason Toye, F, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Mason Toye isn’t letting go of his time in the Minnesota United lineup anytime soon. 

The second-year player had one goal and two assists as a substitute before Saturday’s win over Montreal, where he earned a start and bagged a brace. 

"How's your touch, kid?"@MasonToye98 makes no mistake! 3-2 to the visitors. #MTLvMIN // #SNHUgoals pic.twitter.com/ZJa6lnwhd2

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 7, 2019

The two-goal performance was the first of Toye’s professional career and he’s brought an added element to a Loons offense that simply can’t stop scoring. 

8. Ike Opara, D, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: 6

Jun 8, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Colorado Rapids forward Kei Kamara (23) Minnesota United defender Ike Opara (3) battle in the first half at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. (Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports)

Ike Opara followed up his Week 17 brace with an assist in Minnesota’s Wednesday victory over San Jose. 

In Opara’s last three starts, the Loons have conceded three goals to Colorado, FC Cincinnati and San Jose. 

The Loons receive a much tougher test Saturday when they welcome FC Dallas to Allianz Field. 

7. Brian Fernandez, F, Portland Timbers

Previous Ranking: 1 

Jul 7, 2019; New York, NY, USA; Portland Timbers forward Brian Fernandez (7) plays the ball during the second half against New York City FC at Yankee Stadium. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)

For the first time in his brief MLS career, Brian Fernandez failed to score in a game for the Portland Timbers. 

Fernandez’s incredible scoring run of five straight league games came to an end in the hard-fought 1-0 win over NYCFC in which Sebastian Blanco recorded the lone goal. 

On Sunday, Fernandez has an opportunity to get back on the score sheet when the Timbers host the Colorado Rapids. 

6. Justin Meram, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: 5

Just like his former Columbus Crew teammate Finlay, Justin Meram has struck a rich vein of form out of the Gold Cup break. 

TORCHES him with one touch @JustinMeram is enjoying Atlanta pic.twitter.com/5fDxSeP35T

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) July 7, 2019

The 30-year-old Iraqi international scored in his second straight game Sunday in the back-and-forth draw with the Red Bulls. 

Meram’s three goals are two more than he scored with Orlando and Columbus a year ago.

5. Diego Rossi, F, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Two goals and two assists in Week 18 catapulted Diego Rossi back near the top of the Player Rankings. 

When it rains it pours

Diego Rossi notches our 6th goal of the night!#LAFCvVAN 6-1 pic.twitter.com/gn3lZA5EFb

— LAFC (@LAFC) July 7, 2019

While Vela is receiving the majority of the praise in the LAFC attack, Rossi has been deadly in front of goal as well with 10 goals and five assists. 

If he keeps performing at such a high level, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him linked with a move to Europe. 

4. Kacper Przybylko, F, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: 20 

Since the Philadelphia Union announced the signing of Andrew Wooten, Kacper Przybylko has scored five goals in four games. 

The 26-year-old striker bagged a brace Wednesday against Orlando City and then scored a late equalizer against the Lions Sunday. 

Kacper Przybyłko! Philly's Polish poacher ties the match at 2. #PHIvORL // #SNHUgoals pic.twitter.com/bqzjF4GDQI

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 7, 2019

With Wooten eligible for Saturday’s clash against Real Salt Lake, it will be interesting to see how Przybylko combines with the German-American forward. 

3, Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Josef Martinez returns to the list after a brace of his own Sunday against the Red Bulls. 

The Venezuelan forward is now up to 12 goals in the campaign, ahead of the other scorers on this list because he now has three consecutive two-goal showings.

The King is back pic.twitter.com/ln9gu0fNQB

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) July 7, 2019

Martinez’s four-game scoring streak started back on May 24 before he left to play at Copa America. 

2. Maxi Moralez, M, New York City FC 

Previous Ranking: 2

Jul 7, 2019; New York, NY, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Andres Flores (14) battles for the ball against New York City FC midfielder Maximiliano Moralez (10) during the second half at Yankee Stadium. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)

 The newly-crowned MLS Player of the Month deposited his sixth goal of the season into the back of the net  Wednesday night. 

Maxi Moralez is now up to six goals and 11 assists for the season, and has four goals and five assists in his last four games. 

Hopefully for NYCFC, that form translate into the Hudson River Derby with the Red Bulls on Sunday. 

1. Carlos Vela, Los Angeles FC

Previous Ranking: 3

Just the casual three-goal, two-assist week for Vela. 

Arjen Robben
Derek Zoolander's Magnum
Carlos Vela

*They're going left!*

(via @MLS) pic.twitter.com/1k1u1vjyGg

— Planet Fútbol (@si_soccer) July 4, 2019

The Mexican international was at the forefront of the two routs put together by LAFC in which it won by a combined 11-2 over Sporting KC and Vancouver. 

In four of his last five league games, Vela has recorded a goal and an assist. 

The post Week 18 MLS Player Rankings: Josef Martinez leaps into top three appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

With 19 matches crammed into four matchdays, Week 18 was the busiest one yet in the 2019 MLS regular season, with multiple teams playing double games.

That might be great for the fantasy players, but it lent itself to a lot of mixed results for most of the league. A win in the midweek, followed by a loss on the weekend or vice versa. As a result there was little movement in this week’s Pro Soccer USA Power Rankings.

The Portland Timbers played just once, and moved up into the top 10 after beating NYCFC 1-0 at Yankee Stadium Sunday. Minnesota United picked up a pair of wins and they also climbed two rungs to just below the top 10.  Meanwhile, in the futility cup, FC Cincinnati climbed out of the basement, replaced by Columbus Crew SC after the expansion side snapped a six-match losing streak.

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 writer Dylan Butler contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 18: Portland Timbers chop down NYCFC to enter top 10 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

When you jot down the list of Major League Soccer’s best rivalries right now, it does not take long to write out Atlanta United versus the New York Red Bulls. 

Two of the best sides in the Eastern Conference clashed heads in another memorable match on Sunday, playing to a 3-3 draw after late goals by the star striker on each side. 

MATCH RECAP, pres. by @ProvidentBank: We battle to a draw.

https://t.co/kOlhZ8aHJ2#RBNY pic.twitter.com/EVVwNSH6vA

— New York Red Bulls (@NewYorkRedBulls) July 7, 2019

In between the six goals, a little bit of bad blood was on display, and there were plenty of talking points that will be discussed at length if the two sides meet again in the playoffs. 

In the regular season, the Red Bulls have the edge over the third-year side, with two wins from a year ago and another from earlier in the 2019 campaign.

However, the Five Stripes have the upper hand in the postseason from the  2018 Eastern Conference Final that led to a home victory in MLS Cup. 

In the grand perspective of the Eastern Conference playoff race, Atlanta and the Red Bulls weren’t able to make up ground on the first-place Philadelphia Union, who had to rescue a point at home in stoppage time against Orlando City on Sunday. 

Atlanta and New York have two games in hand on the Union, so it’s possible both are in the fight for the No. 1 seed when Decision Day rolls around. 

New York City FC is another contender with games in hand that fell flat at home in Week 18.

Domènec Torrent’s side saw its 12-game league unbeaten streak end at the hands of the Portland Timbers on Sunday. The 1-0 defeat marked the first time a visiting team entered Yankee Stadium and beat NYCFC this season. 

For now, the games in hand can be put on the back burner for two weeks until the Red Bulls and Atlanta face midweek challenges, but now the switch has to be flipped to one of the Red Bulls’ primary rivalries against NYCFC. 

Even though the Red Bulls-Atlanta rivalry has increased in intensity since its inception in 2017, it is nothing compared to the Hudson River Derby, which will be on full display at Red Bull Arena this Sunday. 

Before we move on, let’s take a look back at an insane set of games that was MLS being MLS at its finest. 

Goals of the Weekend

Mark-Anthony Kaye, Los Angeles FC

on crime.

A off the foot of @MarkThEwizz extends our lead! #LAFCvVAN 3-1 pic.twitter.com/x2DHTdlYKR

— LAFC (@LAFC) July 7, 2019

Mason Toye, Minnesota United

"How's your touch, kid?"@MasonToye98 makes no mistake! 3-2 to the visitors. #MTLvMIN // #SNHUgoals pic.twitter.com/ZJa6lnwhd2

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 7, 2019

LAFC continues to score whenever it wants

Los Angeles FC hit the 50-goal mark for the 2019 campaign with its 11-goal outburst against Sporting Kansas City and the Vancouver Whitecaps in Week 18.

The Black and Gold now have a plus-34 goal differential and a nine-point advantage over the LA Galaxy in the Western Conference, and they lead Philadelphia by seven points in the Supporters’ Shield standings. 

When it rains it pours

Diego Rossi notches our 6th goal of the night!#LAFCvVAN 6-1 pic.twitter.com/gn3lZA5EFb

— LAFC (@LAFC) July 7, 2019

Three of the 11 goals belonged to Carlos Vela, who has already locked up the 2019 Most Valuable Player award, while Diego Rossi chipped in a pair and five other players scored a goal each.

There appears to be no slowing down of the top team in the league, but it faces a difficult task in the U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday against a Portland side with which it has some history. 

Goonies Tribute

Danny Hoesen ignited the memories of the “Goonies Never Say Die” era of the San Jose Earthquakes with a stoppage-time winner off the bench on Saturday.

Danny Hoesen wins it for San Jose in extra time! #SJvRSL // #SNHUgoals pic.twitter.com/wikl5XKvSw

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) July 7, 2019

Although Hoesen didn’t drive in a powerful header like Alan Gordon or Steven Lenhart, he still delivered in a clutch moment for one of the hottest teams in the league. 

Jackson-Hamel scores in a flash 

On the opposite end of the goal-scoring spectrum Saturday was Anthony Jackson-Hamel’s first-minute opener for the Montreal Impact against Minnesota United. 

Jackson-Hamel’s goal 27 seconds into the contest at Stade Saputo was the 15th-fastest goal in league history. 

Anthony Jackson-Hamel has scored for the Montreal Impact #IMFC after 27 seconds, equaling the 15th-fastest goal in #MLS history.#MTLvMIN

— MLS Communications (@MLS_PR) July 7, 2019

FC Cincinnati rallies to end losing run

One day after FC Cincinnati general manager Gerard Nijkamp delivered some bleak news that he’s looking for a short-term solution for the club’s next head coach, the team produced a 3-2 win at Nippert Stadium.

Kekuta Manneh, Rashawn Dally and Víctor Ulloa all provided goals for the expansion side, but it almost threw the game away by conceding twice to the Houston Dynamo in the final 11 minutes. 

Despite the late concessions, FC Cincinnati earned a much-needed victory ahead of a three-game stretch in eight days that starts on Saturday against the Chicago Fire.

Set. Pieces.

Orlando City wasn’t expected to get a result out of Talen Energy Stadium on Sunday, but the Lions used a pair of set pieces to pick up a point against the Union.

Dom Dwyer headed in a Nani free kick to level the contest, and Santiago Patiño cleaned up in front of goal off a corner kick to give the Lions a lead for nine minutes. 

The O-Town kid doing O-Town proud. Vamos @SPatino_7! #PHIvORL | #FaceOfCity pic.twitter.com/kKL7jM60vI

— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) July 7, 2019

Unfortunately for James O’Connor’s side, it couldn’t come away with the win, but it was still a positive result while resting starters ahead of the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday. 

Stock Up, Stock Down

Stock up: Mason Toye

Jul 6, 2019; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Minnesota United forward Mason Toye (23) celebrates his goal against Montreal Impact with teammates during the first half at Stade Saputo. (Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports)

Mason Toye has made the most of his playing time in the Minnesota United attack by scoring three goals in the past three games, including a brace against Montreal on Saturday. 

The uptick in form from the second-year player is a welcome boost to the scoring depth of the Loons, and it shows off the hard work Toye has put in away from the first team to earn his place in the squad. 

The victory pushed the Loons over 30 points and into fourth place in the Western Conference. As Toye and manager Adrian Heath have proved, patience can pay off. 

Stock up: Seattle’s last-minute form 

The Seattle Sounders have won their past two games on last-minute strikes, with the latest occurrence coming from Nicolás Lodeiro in the 96th minute against the Columbus Crew at Mapfre Stadium.

"@NicolasLodeiro has snatched three points for your Seattle Sounders!"

Our captain returned to the lineup last night with an incredible performance pic.twitter.com/2oAPkkD1aP

— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) July 7, 2019

Lodeiro’s game-winning tally came at the end of a long week in the Eastern time zone for the Sounders, who fell midweek at New York City FC before traveling to Columbus. 

Stock in the middle: Sporting Kansas City

We can’t call Week 18 an overall success for Sporting Kansas City because of its home loss to LAFC on Wednesday, but give credit to Peter Vermes’ side for bouncing back and beating Chicago on Saturday. 

Jul 6, 2019; Kansas City, KS, USA; Sporting Kansas City midfielder Yohan Croizet (10) reacts after scoring a goal during the first half against the Chicago Fire at Children’s Mercy Park. (Peter G. Aiken/USA TODAY Sports)

The victory was just the second since the start of June for the club, which has been stuck in a rut for most of the season.

Although the 1-0 victory wasn’t the most impressive win, it could be a catalyst to the climb up the standings everyone is expecting.

Stock down: Montreal

We still don’t know what to make of the Montreal Impact. 

Jul 6, 2019; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Impact defender Jukka Raitala (22) plays the ball against Minnesota United during the first half at Stade Saputo. (Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports)

Remí Garde’s team lost its second straight game and third in five to Minnesota, but it still remains near the top of the Eastern Conference. 

Since the start of May, the Impact have alternated results and haven’t struck a rich vein of form like other contenders in the East. 

The post MLS Week 18 Weekend Review: Red Bulls-Atlanta rivalry rages on; Timbers end NYCFC’s unbeaten run appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

We get the rare occurrence of fewer weekend games than we witnessed in midweek, which was chock full of weird MLS results from Chicago blasting five goals past Atlanta United to a nearly five-hour marathon between Colorado and New England due to a few weather delays. 

Typically, the bizarre results are saved for midweek, but with plenty of teams finishing off long stretches of games and the heat and other conditions playing a significant factor still, we could be in for a wacky weekend of nine contests. 

After a brief hiatus, there are seven MLS games to indulge in Saturday night before two marquee clashes sandwiched between the Women’s World Cup, Copa America and Gold Cup finals. 

While there will be some interesting matchups on Saturday, the real intriguing comes Sunday with Atlanta and the New York Red Bulls squaring off and red-hot Portland heading east to face surging New York City FC. 

Week 18 Weekend Schedule

Saturday, July 6

Orlando City at Philadelphia Union (7 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Houston Dynamo at FC Cincinnati (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Seattle Sounders at Columbus Crew (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Minnesota United at Montreal Impact (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Chicago Fire at Sporting Kansas City (8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Vancouver Whitecaps at Los Angeles FC (10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Real Salt Lake at San Jose Earthquakes (10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Sunday, July 7 

New York Red Bulls at Atlanta United (2 p.m. ET, Fox) 

Portland Timbers at New York City FC (6:30 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Things to Watch 

1. Injury and suspension adjustments in Chester

Jul 3, 2019; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando City SC midfielder Sacha Kljestan (16) tackles Philadelphia Union midfielder Jamiro Monteiro (35) during the second half at Orlando City Stadium. Kljestan received a red card on the play. (Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports)

For the second leg of their home-and-home series Saturday, Philadelphia and Orlando will be forced to make changes due to injuries and a pair of suspensions.

Robin Jansson and Sacha Kljestan are out for the Lions due to red cards, while Jamiro Monteiro will miss the match at Talen Energy Stadium after suffering an ankle injury caused by Kljestan’s red-card tackle. 

The Union should be able to rely on Marco Fabian to replace Monteiro, with Brenden Aaronson playing one of the sides of the 4-4-2 diamond midfield. 

The Lions can slide Dom Dwyer back into the lineup to supplement Kljestan’s productivity in the final third, but the lineups for Saturday could look even more different than Wednesday. 

Orlando has its eye on the U.S. Open Cup quarterfinals next week and the Union are playing their fourth game in 10 days. 

2. Can Houston stay hot & take advantage of FC Cincinnati’s defense? 

Jul 3, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Dynamo forward Alberth Elis (17) reacts after scoring a goal during stoppage time against the New York Red Bulls at BBVA Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

The Houston Dynamo are one of a few teams looking to bank on a strong Wednesday performance to produce momentum going into the weekend. 

Saturday’s trip up to Nippert Stadium to face FC Cincinnati presents the Houston attack with a perfect opportunity to build on the four goals put past the Red Bulls Wednesday. 

A victory in Cincinnati would be massive for the Dynamo, who enter a brutal stretch of games in July after Saturday with LAFC, Atlanta, Toronto FC and Seattle up in the next four games. 

For the expansion side, the first goal is to not be exposed on defense like it has during its six-game winning streak. When its defense is at full strength, FC Cincinnati has produced some decent performances, but the combination of injuries, international duty and poor form has led to a nightmare.

FC Cincinnati has given up 24 goals during the six-game losing streak. Eight MLS teams have given up 24 goals or fewer the entire season. 

3. Should we be worried about Seattle?

Jul 3, 2019; New York, NY, USA; Seattle Sounders defender Xavier Arreaga (25) heads the ball against the New York City FC during the second half at Yankee Stadium. (Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports)

While we’ve been busy roasting other teams (we’re looking at you, Ohio teams), Seattle has dropped four of its last five league games. 

In addition to that bad run of form, the Sounders are 1-5-3 on their travels, with zero points from their last four road games. 

The good news for the Seattle is struggling Columbus is its opponent Saturday and after its trip to MAPFRE Stadium, it plays four of its next five games at home.

Still, it is a bit concerning to see the Sounders production dry up with the LA teams earning results at the top of the Western Conference and margins being so thin in the hunt for the final five playoff positions.

4. How many goals does Minnesota have left in it? 

Jul 3, 2019; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota United midfielder Jan Gregus (8) controls the ball against the San Jose Earthquakes during the second half at Allianz Field (Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports)

Minnesota United is the hottest team in front of goal in MLS with 10 tallies in the last 180 minutes of action. 

What is even more remarkable about the wins over FC Cincinnati and San Jose is the Loons had eight different players score, with Ike Opara and Kevin Molino the only ones with multiple goals. 

Like in baseball when hitting is contagious, scoring appears to be contagious within the Loons locker room, which could mean bad news for the Montreal Impact, who have the worst goal differential of any side sitting in the playoff positions at -7. 

Although the Impact’s defensive record is far from stellar, they have played well at Stade Saputo of late with victories over Real Salt Lake, Seattle and Portland in three of their last four home matches. 

Keep an eye on Montreal center back Zakaria Diallo, who could be the key to stopping the Loons’ buildup in the middle of the park. Diallo has quietly produced a few good showings for the Impact this season.

5. How do Sporting KC and Chicago respond to opposite midweek results? 

Jul 3, 2019; Kansas City, KS, USA; Sporting Kansas City midfielder Yohan Croizet (10) reacts after scoring a goal during the second half Los Angeles FC against at Children’s Mercy Park. (Peter G. Aiken/USA TODAY Sports)

Saturday’s clash at Children’s Mercy Park between Sporting Kansas City and Chicago is the most fascinating match of Week 18 from an emotional perspective. 

On Wednesday, the Fire earned their first victory since May 11 in a trouncing of Atlanta United at home, while Sporting KC fell flat once again against LAFC. 

For Chicago, the concern is about being consistent in generating positive results since it has followed a win with another victory just once in 2019. 

It is unusual to see Peter Vermes’ side mired at the bottom of the table, especially with how poorly the team has played. 

Saturday is the perfect chance for Sporting KC to bounce back on short notice at home to make a statement, but we kept saying that about Toronto FC in 2018 and it rarely happened. 

6. Can Vancouver get the best of LAFC again? 

Apr 17, 2019; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Vancouver Whitecaps defender Ali Adnan (53) celebrates the win with goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau (16) after the end of the second half at BC Place. (Anne-Marie Sorvin-USA TODAY Sports)

The Vancouver Whitecaps are one of two teams to beat LAFC this season, and on Saturday, they have a chance to pull off a rare feat against Bob Bradley’s side. 

The April 17 victory at BC Place wasn’t a fluke, even though LAFC rested Jordan Harvey, Steven Beitashour and Mark-Anthony Kaye. 

Marc Dos Santos’ team made Carlos Vela rather ineffective in the final third by holding him to one shot on goal, and the defense as a whole held the Supporters’ Shield leader to three shots on goal. 

The Whitecaps need some type of positive response to a four-game winless run, and they will be on full rest after being one of four teams not to play in midweek.

If you’re looking for a difference-maker for the Whitecaps, look at Ali Adnan, who just signed a Designated Player deal with the team Friday. It’s a big investment for the club in defense, but he has proved he’s worth the price so far. 

7. Expect playoff-level intensity at Avaya Stadium

Jul 3, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Real Salt Lake forward Sam Johnson (50) races down the line against the Columbus Crew at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

If you’re staying up late to catch a look at San Jose, and why wouldn’t you with the way they are playing, you should be in for one of the most intense matches of the weekend. 

San Jose and RSL will engage in a possible six-pointer that could affect the bottom half of the Western Conference playoff spots in a significant manner. 

The Quakes have received all of the love from around the league for their recent form, but RSL is keeping pace with most of their rivals and are one point better than Matias Almeyda’s side. 

Saturday should be a real test for the San Jose back line, even though it is a home game, since RSL has one of the more in-form forwards in Sam Johnson and has a dangerous No. 10 in Albert Rusnak who can get in between the lines and wreak havoc. 

It’s also worth watching how Damir Kreilach and Everton Luiz handle the combination play between Vako, Chris Wondolowski, Magnus Eriksson and Cristian Espinoza. 

8. How will Red Bulls defense handle Atlanta’s attack? 

May 25, 2019; Cincinnati, OH, USA; New York Red Bulls defender Amro Tarek (3) reacts against FC Cincinnati in the first half at Nippert Stadium. (Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports)

You could point to every position on the field and pick out an intriguing matchup to watch in Sunday’s clash between Atlanta and the Red Bulls, but the real concern going into the contest is the Red Bulls back line.

With Aaron Long still away at the Gold Cup and Tim Parker banged up, the Red Bulls have to rely on Amro Tarek to hold down the fort in the middle of the back four while dealing with the interplay and movement of Josef Martinez, Pity Martinez and Ezequiel Barco.

Against Houston’s Alberth Elis and Romell Quioto Wednesday, the Red Bulls back line looked outmatched and gave up four goals. 

The Red Bulls can’t afford another terrible defensive performance, but it is going to be tough to contain an Atlanta attack hungry to make a statement that the loss to Chicago was a fluke and it can flex its muscle against one of the best sides in the East.

9. How will Portland manage Yankee Stadium? 

May 15, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Portland Timbers forward Brian Fernandez (7) reacts after scoring a goal during the second half against the Houston Dynamo at BBVA Compass Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

Atlanta-Red Bulls is the appetizer to the real MLS showdown on Sunday. 

Portland and NYCFC are two of the best teams in the league, and their respective attacks are firing on all cylinders. 

One of the most interesting things to watch at Yankee Stadium will be how the combination of Diego Valeri, Sebastian Blanco and Brian Fernandez work together in tight spaces. 

Fernandez’s adjustment to the Yankee Stadium is worth watching as well, since some of the league’s best players and teams have struggled with the short dimensions. 

In addition to playing in a condensed area, the Timbers have to go up against Alexander Ring, who is even more underrated of a player than their own defensive midfielder Diego Chara. 

The post Week 18 Weekend Preview: Portland Timbers-NYCFC showdown headlines 9-game slate appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – For the second-straight week, severed weather caused delays at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Due to lighting and hail in the area, the match kickoff was pushed back an hour – it would be just one of three separate delays due to the conditions.

A match between the New England Revolution and the Colorado Rapids would eventually commence however, with the Revolution leaving victorious in a 2-1 result, propelled by goals from Teal Bunbury and Juan Fernando Caicedo.

The loss snapped a seven-match unbeaten streak for Colorado, while New England extends its own unbeaten run to seven matches.

New England would strike early. After clearing danger in the 6th minute on a Rapids’ corner, New England was rewarded with the game’s opening goal moments later.

On the ensuing attack, ex-Rapid Edgar Castillo found Bunbury with a pass inside Colorado’s six-yard box, with the Revs’ forward sending his shot to the far post, giving the visitors a 1-0 lead in the 8th minute. The goal marked Bunbury’s 50th in MLS.

In the 29th minute, a second weather delay was called which lasted in excess of 90 minutes. At the time of the delay, New England was controlling the match with seven shots to Colorado’s five, while holding nearly 65 percent of the possession.

At around 10:10 p.m. local time, the match resumed. Colorado nearly found an equalizer by winning the ball deep in the attacking third, but Rapids forward Diego Rubio was unable to find Kei Kamara and the ball was quickly scooped up by the New England defense and goalkeeper Matt Turner.

But in the 35th minute, the game was yet again delayed by lightning in the area. Play resumed once again at 11:05 p.m. local time.

By halftime, the Rapids managed one more shot, but the Revs still held a possession advantage with 53 percent of the ball in the stanza.

In the 49th minute Castillo nearly added a goal of his own to double New England’s lead, but his attempt was blocked by Rapids defender Keegan Rosenberry.

New England would eventually extend its lead to 2-0 in the 52nd minute as Carles Gil found Juan Fernando Caicedo on a set piece, Caicedo placing his header in the lower left corner of Colorado’s net for the goal.

In the 70th minute, Kamara nearly pulled a goal back for Colorado with a snapping header, but Turner came up big with the save.

The Revs weren’t completely clear of danger, conceding on the following play. Rubio scored on a corner taken by Nicolas Mezquida, drawing the score within 2-1 in the 71st minute.

Colorado’s best chance to equalize came in the 89th minute as Lalas Abubakar put a header on frame off another set piece opportunity, but again Turner came up big with the save.

In the extra time period, Colorado went down to 10-men, with Kellyn Acosta being set off for a pair off yellow cards for dissent (90’+1’). Acosta will be suspended for Colorado’s next match.

Despite a continued push for an equalizer by Colorado, New England saw out the remainder of the match defensively to earn all three points on the road.

New England returns home to face conference rivals D.C. United at Gillette Stadium next Friday (7 p.m. ET) while Colorado will take to the road to face Portland (11 p.m. ET) before returning home two days later to face European giants Arsenal in the debut friendly match between the two Kroenke-owned teams.

The post Revolution earns Independence Day victory, outlasting weather delays and Rapids in 2-1 win appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

We’ve officially reached the midpoint in the Major League Soccer calendar. 

Four months of play is in the books and there are four more months left to decide the 2019 champion. 

Before we dive head first into the playoff races over the next few months, the Pro Soccer USA staff took a few minutes to reflect back on the first half of the campaign.

The voting staff of myself, Dylan Butler, Arman Kafai, Mitchell Northam, Ben Ferree, Julian Cardillo and Dan Santaromita made our choices for 11 different categories for midseason awards and also looked ahead to the second half by picking out a player and storyline to watch.

Below are the results for the Pro Soccer USA MLS midseason awards.

Most Valuable Player

Carlos Vela, Los Angeles FC 

May 16, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Carlos Vela (10) and FC Dallas defender Reto Ziegler (3) battle for the ball in the first half at Banc of California Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Carlos Vela is the unanimous choice for Most Valuable Player right now, and he probably will be when we vote again at the end of the season. 

The 30-year-old Mexican has 17 goals and 11 assists in 18 games for Los Angeles FC, and there appears to be no slowing down as he chases Josef Martinez’s single-season scoring record. 

In total, Vela has played a role in 28 of LAFC’s 44 goals during its 12-2-4 start to the season, which has it on track for the Supporters’ Shield 

Coach of the Year 

Jim Curtin, Philadelphia Union 

Oct 6, 2018; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Union head coach Jim Curtin to the field before match against the Minnesota United walks on at Talen Energy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports

Our staff voters were torn on the perfect Coach of the Year candidate, but Philadelphia’s Jim Curtin gets the nod for leading his club to first place in the Eastern Conference. 

Curtin’s Union have dealt with a litany of issues, including injuries, suspensions, international duty and Cory Burke’s visa status, but they have remained in first place. 

San Jose’s Matias Almeyda and LAFC’s Bob Bradley also received votes. 

Rookie of the Year

Andre Shinyashiki, Colorado Rapids

Jun 1, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Colorado Rapids forward Andre Shinyashiki (99) chases down a loose ball in the second half against FC Cincinnati at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

The No. 5 overall pick in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft has come up with a few big goals for the Colorado Rapids. 

Andre Shinyashiki has four goals and an assist in 16 games for the Rapids after he lit the nets on fire at the University of Denver. 

While Shinyashiki is the current Rookie of the Year favorite, he faces stiff competition from New England’s DeJuan Jones and a few others.

Most Improved Player

Miles Robinson, Atlanta United

Mar 17, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta United defender Miles Robinson (12) plays the ball in front of Philadelphia Union midfielder Ilsinho (25) during the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports

Two Atlanta United players received votes from our writers in this category, but Miles Robinson edged out Ezequiel Barco. 

After playing in 10 games in his first two seasons, Robinson has started 17 of the 18 games he’s appeared in, and he’s worked his way on to the U.S. Men’s National Team radar in a deep center back pool.

Through 18 games, Robinson and the Five Stripes defense have let up 20 goals, which is the fourth-fewest total in MLS.

New York Red Bulls defender Amro Tarek and forward Brian White, as well as Columbus’ Pedro Santos received votes in this category.

Newcomer of the Year 

Alejandro Pozuelo, Toronto FC 

May 15, 2019; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC forward Alejandro Pozuelo (10) driblbles the ball against D.C. United at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports

Replacing Sebastian Giovinco’s impact on the Toronto FC attack was never going to be easy, but Alejandro Pozuelo has filled the void through the first half of the season. 

The Spanish playmaker has seven goals and eight assists in 15 games for the Reds, who are fighting for one of the final playoff spots in the Eastern Conference. 

Although this award is Pozuelo’s now, it might not be his at the end of the year with Nani playing well at Orlando City and Brian Fernandez on a scoring tear in Portland. 

Best Goal

Wayne Rooney, D.C. United

This was one of the easiest answers for the writers we pooled. 

Wayne Rooney’s tremendous 70-yard goal for D.C. United on June 26 is the front-runner for Goal of the Year.

We are not worthy, @WayneRooney! pic.twitter.com/oFPyGOXHSl

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 27, 2019

Rooney put the perfect amount of weight on his shot and caught Orlando City goalkeeper Brian Rowe out of position to send his shot into the right side of the net. 

Most Surprising Player

Brian White, New York Red Bulls

Jun 28, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls forward Brian White (42) carries the ball as Chicago Fire defender Marcelo (2) defends during the first half at Red Bull Arena. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Brian White has done an admirable job filling in for Bradley Wright-Phillips at the top of the New York Red Bulls attack. 

The 23-year-old, who has climbed his way up the Red Bulls organizational ladder, has five goals and two assists in 11 appearances. 

While he’s not at Aaron Long-level success yet, he’s on the same track as the U.S. Men’s National Team defender .

Philadelphia’s Kacper Przybylko, Minnesota’s Jan Gregus, LAFC’s Mark-Anthony Kaye and Robinson all received votes in this category as well.

Most Surprising Team 

San Jose Earthquakes 

Jul 3, 2019; Saint Paul, MN, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Tommy Thompson (22) controls the ball during the first half of a match with Minnesota United at Allianz Field Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports

The turnaround taking place in San Jose over the last few months has been spectacular to watch.

Almeyda has instituted his system to near perfection, and it has led to the Quakes making a surge into the playoff places in the Western Conference. 

San Jose received one more vote than Philadelphia in this category, while Montreal, who is quietly in third place in the East, earned a vote as well. 

Best Young American (21-and-under) 

Paxton Pomykal, FC Dallas

Apr 13, 2019; Frisco, TX, USA; FC Dallas midfielder Paxton Pomykal (19) celebrates the win over the Portland Timbers at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

The tickets for the Paxton Pomykal hype train sold out early in the 2019 MLS season. 

The U-20 World Cup participant has marveled with his passing and overall ability in the final third for FC Dallas. 

Pomykal’s first-half performance has set much higher expectations for him for the rest of the year with Luchi Gonzalez’s side fighting for a playoff position. 

Most Disappointing Player

Gonzalo “Pity” Martinez, Atlanta United

Jun 26, 2019; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Atlanta United FC midfielder Pity Martinez (10) celebrates after scoring a goal on a penalty shot against Toronto FC at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

In 17 games, Pity Martinez has two goals and three assists. 

That production simply isn’t good enough for a player who was expected to replace the void left by Miguel Almiron’s sale to Newcastle United. 

Since Atlanta United have plenty of stars at their disposal, they’ve been able to deal with Martinez’s struggles better than other clubs, but his lack of production is still a glaring set back for the defending MLS Cup champion.

Philadelphia’s Marco Fabian and the FC Cincinnati pair of Nick Hagglund and Fanendo Adi also received votes in this category.

Most Disappointing Team 

Sporting Kansas City 

Jun 1, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Sporting Kansas City head coach Peter Vermes argues a call while playing against the Houston Dynamo at BBVA Compass Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports

Sporting Kansas City and Columbus were neck-and-neck in the voting for most disappointing team, but Peter Vermes’ side received one more vote. 

Sporting KC currently sits in last place in the Western Conference with 19 points from 18 games.

Although the club has dealt with a slew of injuries, we expect more out of a team that has set such a high standard for itself. 

Columbus has been a disaster in its own right in Caleb Porter’s first season since it sits 11th in the East with 17 points. 

Second Half Player to Watch

Ezequiel Barco, Atlanta United

Apr 13, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; Atlanta United midfielder Ezequiel Barco (8) smiles at his bench after scoring against the New England Revolution during the first half at Gillette Stadium. (Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports)

How Barco follows up his strong showing at the U-20 World Cup will be interesting to watch.

The Argentinian has shown glimpses of his high quality during the season, but he hasn’t put together a significant stretch of goals and assists yet. 

In order for the Five Stripes to claim the No. 1 seed in the East, he has to make more of an impact. 

Brian Fernandez, Emerson Hyndman and Nani also received votes. 

Second Half Storyline to Watch 

What Can Bruce Arena Do With the Revs? 

Jun 26, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution head coach Bruce Arena reacts during the second half against the Philadelphia Union at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

This was the most open-ended question we asked of our reporters, and we received a handful of great responses, but the one that stood out the most was Bruce Arena’s impact on the New England Revolution.

The legendary manager has already put his imprint on the team by stringing together a six-game unbeaten run, but the Revs will need more production in order to make the playoff after a disastrous start under Brad Friedel.

The other stories our writers will be watching are Portland’s second half with a large chunk of home games, LAFC’s incredible run to the Supporters’ Shield and if San Jose can stay hot with Almeyda leading the charge. 

The post Pro Soccer USA MLS Midseason Awards appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Because you haven’t had enough soccer in your life over the last few weeks, there are 10 — yes 10 — Major League Soccer games taking place Wednesday and Thursday. 

Seven kickoff Wednesday, with a few intriguing clashes expected to take center stage, including one matchup that doesn’t stick out until you dig deeper. 

All of the action Thursday night takes place in Western Conference stadiums, with Colorado, FC Dallas and LA Galaxy all hosting Eastern Conference foes. 

Entering Week 18, the top six teams in the East are separated by six points, while the teams in second through eighth in the West have eight points between them.

Every result matters at this stage of the season, which is why we should see an increased level of urgency in every side in midweek.

Below is a look at one thing to watch in each of the 10 midweek contests slated to take place in Week 18.

Week 18 Midweek Schedule

Wednesday, July 3

Seattle Sounders at New York City FC (7 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

Philadelphia Union at Orlando City (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

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

San Jose Earthquakes at Minnesota United (8 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Los Angeles FC at Sporting Kansas City (8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

New York Red Bulls at Houston Dynamo (9 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Columbus Crew at Real Salt Lake (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

Thursday, July 4

New England Revolution at Colorado Rapids (9 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

D.C. United at FC Dallas (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Toronto FC at LA Galaxy (10:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Things To Watch

1. NYCFC’s attacking cohesion 

Jun 29, 2019; New York, NY, USA; New York City FC midfielder Valentin Castellanos (11) plays the ball against the Philadelphia Union during the first half at Yankee Stadium. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)

Thanks to five assists in two games, Maxi Moralez is the current MLS leader in assists, and he combined superbly with Valentin Castellanos in New York City FC’s 4-2 win over Philadelphia on Saturday. 

What is crazy about that result is Alexandru Mitrita and Ismael Tajouri-Shradi didn’t have a significant impact on the contest, while Heber was out with an injury. 

Those five players have the potential to form one of the most dangerous MLS attacks in the second half. Wednesday is the perfect opportunity for their form to continue against a Seattle team making the dreaded midweek trip from the West coast. 

2. Squad depth in Orlando 

May 19, 2019; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando City SC midfielder Oriol Rosell (20), forward Benji Michel (19), defender Kyle Smith (24) , forward Dom Dwyer (14) celebrate as they beat the FC Cincinnati at Orlando City Stadium. (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Orlando City and Philadelphia Union enter Exploria Stadium on two different ends of the squad depth spectrum.

The Lions are getting reinforcements from players returning from international duty, and Dom Dwyer will be available after missing Saturday’s clash with Columbus. 

On the other end, the Union are playing their third game in a week and had to sign RJ Allen as a defensive reinforcement since they are short at right back. 

Jim Curtin’s side is thin at fullback and central midfield at the moment, but he needs to utilize some type of squad rotation with a home game against Orlando also ahead Saturday. 

3. Can Chicago not be, well..a Fire? 

Jun 28, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; Chicago Fire forward C.J. Sapong (9) reacts during the second half against the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)

The Chicago Fire have perpetually underachieved during the Veljko Paunovic era and there is no clear fix in sight.

On Friday against the New York Red Bulls, the Fire attempted 26 shots, but only put eight on target and they turned in a defensive performance that left us once again questioning their form. 

The Fire have some nice pieces in attack in Nemanja Nikolic, C.J. Sapong, Aleksandar Katai (who has been their best player) and Przemyslaw Frankowski, but their defense and goalkeeping have been nightmarish. 

Chicago isn’t expected to win at Atlanta United Wednesday, but what we do want to see out of the side is a strong response for a coach that is creeping closer to the hot seat with every negative result. 

4. Minnesota & San Jose trying to continue momentum

Jun 29, 2019; Saint Paul, MN, Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota United midfielder Ethan Finlay (13) celebrates with forward Carlos Darwin Quintero (25) after a goal against FC Cincinnati during the first half at Allianz Field. (Jordan Johnson/Minnesota United FC – Handout Photo via USA TODAY Sports)

If you had to choose one game to watch on Wednesday, it should be the clash between Minnesota United and San Jose Earthquakes.

The contest at Allianz Field might not have the big-time stars you look for in a Game of the Week, but it has two teams flying high on confidence after stellar results in Week 17. 

It’s also a vital game in terms of the Western Conference playoff picture. San Jose is fifth with 25 points and Minnesota sits sixth with 24. With Portland and Colorado surging and Sporting Kansas City still lurking beneath the playoff line, every result is important from here on out. 

If you’re looking for an individual matchup to keep an eye on, look at how Loons center back Ike Opara deals with the movement of the San Jose forwards, who have taken turns being the in-form scorer in their side. 

5. When will the Sporting KC resurgence start? 

Jun 29, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Sporting Kansas City forward Gerso (12) and Real Salt Lake defender Donny Toia (4) battle in the second half at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

Sporting Kansas City is beginning to have a 2018 Toronto FC feel to it as a team stuck in the bottom of the standings, one we expect to make a run into the playoff spot, but hasn’t yet. 

Peter Vermes’ side has two wins since the start of May and faces a tough task at home on Wednesday against a Los Angeles FC team looking to bounce back from a loss in Colorado.

The first match of the season between the two sides, which ended in a 2-1 LAFC win, was one of the best showdowns of the season. 

One of Sporting KC’s keys to success Wednesday will be the effectiveness of Ilie Sanchez, who faces a tough task against LAFC’s powerful midfield. 

If Ilie is able to lock down the space in front of the center backs, LAFC will be forced wide, where it will be forced to send in crosses, which favors Sporting KC and the aerial ability of its center backs and goalkeeper Tim Melia. 

6. Can Houston break its scoring slump? 

Jun 29, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; Houston Dynamo midfielder Darwin Ceren (24) controls the ball during the first half against the New England Revolution at Gillette Stadium. (Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports)

When the Houston Dynamo are firing on all cylinders in attack, they are one of the best teams to watch in MLS. 

But we haven’t seen a ton of attacking flair out of Wilmer Cabrera’s side over the last month-plus. In their last five games, the Dynamo have been shut out on three occasions and scored once in the other two games. 

Part of the offensive struggles has to deal with the international absences of the club’s Honduran contingent, but even they might not be the remedy to the situation since Honduras didn’t live up to expectations at the Gold Cup. 

In the same span, Houston’s Wednesday opponent, the New York Red Bulls, have scored 13 goals and that’s been without star striker Bradley Wright-Phillips. 

7. RSL trying to keep up strong home form 

Jun 29, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Real Salt Lake midfielder Everton Luiz (25) and Real Salt Lake defender Justen Glad (15) celebrate their 2-0 win against the Sporting Kansas City at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Jeff Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)

In their last three home games, Real Salt Lake have outscored opponents 7-1, with three victories coming against Toronto FC, Atlanta United and Sporting KC. 

The Claret-and-Cobalt need to continue to use Rio Tinto Stadium as a fortress, especially with their 2-6-2 road mark holding them out of the top seven in the West. 

Wednesday’s home clash with Columbus should be fairly straightforward for Mike Petke’s side since the Crew are stumbling through the schedule right now. 

If you tune into this late-night clash, watch how Albert Rusnak drives the RSL attack and the finishing ability of Sam Johnson, who has turned into a strong offseason signing for the eighth-place side in the West. 

8. Conor Casey vs. Bruce Arena

May 29, 2019; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Colorado Rapids head coach Conor Casey waives to fans prior to a game against the Philadelphia Union at Talen Energy Stadium. (Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports)

Thursday’s match at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park could have a bit of a MLS 1.0 feel to it with one of the league’s best strikers, Conor Casey, guiding Colorado and one of its most successful head coaches, Bruce Arena, in charge of New England. 

Do not expect anything fancy from this contest since the Rapids are still limited in terms of sheer talent and the Revs are playing their third game in a week at altitude. 

It won’t be the most appetizing affair, but it will be a display of two teams that have significantly improved in a short stretch after the firings of Anthony Hudson and Brad Friedel. 

The Rapids enter on a seven-game unbeaten run, while the Revs have picked up a point in each of their last six contests. 

9. Time to let more Homegrowns loose 

Jun 26, 2019; Frisco, TX, USA; FC Dallas midfielder Brandon Servania (18) in action during the match against the Vancouver Whitecaps at Toyota Stadium. (Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports)

FC Dallas’ sale of Carlos Gruezo to Freiburg opens the door for more Homegrown talent to take the field at Toyota Stadium. 

Edwin Cerrillo and Brandon Servania will be the direct beneficiaries of the Gruezo sale, and could form one heck of a young midfield triumvirate alongside Paxton Pomykal, who has already put himself in the discussion for the best young player in the league. 

Thursday could be the perfect opportunity for the three midfielders to shine on a big stage with Wayne Rooney, Luciano Acosta and D.C. United coming to Frisco. 

If all goes well, the hype train station in Frisco that is already packed to capacity will have more riders wanting to get in on the craze. 

10. Zlatan 

Jun 29, 2019; San Jose, CA, USA; LA Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (9) after a game against the San Jose Earthquakes at Stanford Stadium. (Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports)

It’s been too long since Zlatan Ibrahimovic graced us with his scoring presence. 

Too long by Ibrahimovic’s standards is two games stretched over a month, but if you look further back, he has two goals since May 8, which is an uncommon lengthy drought for the Swede. 

A year ago on the Fourth of July, Ibrahimovic scored a goal against D.C. United in the middle of one of his hottest scoring streaks. 

With Toronto FC coming to town and the LA Galaxy in need of a bounce-back win, Thursday presents Ibrahimovic with the perfect opportunity to set off some on-field fireworks before the real displays start in southern California. 

The post MLS Week 18 Midweek Preview: NYCFC hosts Seattle Sounders in headliner appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The New England Revolution’s Fourth of July tilt against the Colorado Rapids might as well be named “The New Head Coach Derby.”

Both teams have been resurgent since parting with their respective coaches in May after horrendous starts to the season.

Colorado went winless in its first 11 games and takes a seven-game unbeaten streak into Thursday’s match, while the Revolution are unbeaten in six after setting franchise records for futility two months into the regular season.

“It’s a good example of this league,” said Revolution coach Bruce Arena, who was hired on May 11. “You win three games in this league, and you’re the best team in the league for those two weeks. It hasn’t changed a whole lot, and we’re hopeful we can be consistent in the month of July and position ourselves to be in the playoff hunt.”

New Colorado coach Conor Casey, who played for Arena on the U.S. national team, is probably trying to strike a similar chord to motivate the Rapids.

Colorado dug itself a deep hole to start the season, but is now five points out of the Western Conference’s seventh and final playoff spot. Meanwhile, the Revs are three points out of the last playoff spot in the East.

With that backdrop, Thursday’s fixture in Commerce City is pivotal for both teams.

Casey might have more leverage tactics-wise, since his team is used to playing at elevation (5,164 feet) and is on a four-game home winning streak.

“He is a great guy…a calm guy,” said Revolution left back Edgar Castillo, who was traded to New England from Colorado in the offseason. “That’s what you need in the locker room, like we have it here. A lot of things changed here, so we feel much better. That’s how it is. That’s how they get all the results they’ve been having.

“It’s good for Conor and the group. They’ve worked very hard. That’s good for them, but now it’s for us now going there and getting three points.”

The Revolution are 4-14-4 at Colorado since 1996.

Is the altitude a factor for visiting teams?

“It is,” added Castillo. “It is a factor, but I don’t think it’s a big factor. We have to have a very good game, know when we can go forward and not, and get three points.”

New England flew to Denver on Tuesday to get acclimated to the elevation, but is on short rest following Saturday night’s come-from-behind win against the Houston Dynamo.

There will be a few other reunions on Thursday besides Castillo going back to Colorado. Kei Kamara, the Rapids’ leading scorer this season, played for the Revolution from 2016-17. Arena also coached Colorado goalkeeper Tim Howard and midfielder Kellyn Acosta on the USMNT, and defender Kofi Opare with the LA Galaxy from 2013-14.

The post Resurgent Colorado Rapids, New England Revolution meet on Fourth of July appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

For the first time in a month, the MLS Player Rankings are back. 

Since our last rankings, Major League Soccer took an international break, had a brief Week 16 schedule and Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday matches in Week 17 to welcome us back to domestic play.

Since so much has changed since out last list, we’ve given everyone a fresh slate to work with. 

The majority of the players in the rankings this week were the best Week 17 had to offer, as well as some of the stars of the first half of the 2019 campaign. 

Once action gets rolling again in MLS, which it will in a fast way in Week 18, we’ll go back to using the sample size of the last four performances to determine the top 20, but we thought it wouldn’t be fair to apply that this week because of the large gap of time between games for some players. 

20. Kacper Przybylko, F, Philadelphia Union 

Even though the Philadelphia Union only got one point out of two games in Week 17, Kacper Przybylko rediscovered some form in front of the net. 

The German-born Polish striker scored his fifth and sixth goals of the season against New England and New York City FC. 

This goal tho. #DOOP | #Golazo pic.twitter.com/FZIr0ewtrA

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) June 30, 2019

Saturday’s strike at Yankee Stadium was the better of the two. Przybylko struck his shot on the volley after a lovely backheel assist from Jamiro Monteiro. 

19. Carles Gil, M, New England Revolution

May 25, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution midfielder Carles Gil (22) controls the ball away from D.C. United midfielder Russell Canouse (4) during the second half at Gillette Stadium. (Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports)

In two games against Philadelphia and Houston in Week 17, Carles Gil handed out 13 key passes and picked up an assist on Brandon Bye’s opener on Wednesday. 

The 26-year-old Spaniard has been one of the more active attackers in the Eastern Conference this season, but hasn’t received enough headlines because of how miserable the Revs looked at the end of the Brad Friedel-era. 

Gil is averaging 2.9 key passes and 1.6 shots per game in his first MLS season. 

18. Hassani Dotson, D, Minnesota United

Hassani Dotson has been one of the recent revelations of the MLS campaign. 

The No. 31 overall pick in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft has scored in two of his last three games, including a rocket of a shot that produced the second of seven Loons goals on Saturday against FC Cincinnati.

HASSANI DOTSON WITH A ROCKET pic.twitter.com/q92ILQDUjR

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 29, 2019

Dotson’s played well with Romain Metanire on international duty with Madagascar, and once Metanire gets back, the Loons will have a terrific stable of fullbacks at their disposal. 

17. Brian White, F, New York Red Bulls

Aug 29, 2018; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls forward Brian White (42) chases the ball during the second half against the Houston Dynamo at Red Bull Arena. (Vincent Carchietta/USA TODAY Sports)

Brian White stepped up in a massive way for the New York Red Bulls while Bradley Wright-Phillips was out injured. 

White, who scored one of three Red Bulls goals against Chicago on Friday, has three goals in his last four starts and has a team-high five goals and two assists on the season.

White’s progression is similar to a few others in the Red Bulls organization who plied their trade with New York Red Bulls II before climbing up the ladder and achieving success in MLS. 

16. Tommy Thompson, D, San Jose Earthquakes

San Jose manager Matias Almeyda deserves all sorts of credit for the wonders he’s worked with the Earthquakes, but the one decision that has caught our eyes the most is moving Tommy Thompson to the back line.

TOMMY THOMPSON MADE THIS ONE HAPPEN!

3-0 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA! #BeatLA | @SutterHealth pic.twitter.com/npwjiPUblt

— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) June 30, 2019

The 23-year-old only made 14 appearances under Mikael Stahre a year ago, but now he’s carved his spot into the starting lineup by playing in 15 games in the first four months of the season. 

Thompson added an extra touch to his season resume on Saturday by scoring in the Cali Clasico win over the LA Galaxy.

15. Sam Vines, D, Colorado Rapids

Jun 28, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Colorado Rapids defender Sam Vines (13) controls the ball against the Los Angeles FC in the first half at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. (Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports)

One of the stranger results of the season occurred on Friday, when the Colorado Rapids shut out Los Angeles FC at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. 

Left back Sam Vines was one of the many defensive pieces that helped Conor Casey’s side pull of its best result of the season. 

In the 1-0 win, Vines made six clearances, three tackles and an interception and helped hold LAFC to three shots on target. 

14. Alejandro Pozuelo, M, Toronto FC 

With his brace against Atlanta United on Wednesday, Alejandro Pozuelo moved his season totals up to seven goals and eight assists. 

Pozuelo’s first goal came off a nice cross from the left wing sent in by Jacob Shaffleburg, and the second was a game-winning penalty kick in stoppage time.

Perfect pass, perfect header. @Pozuelo_10 makes it 2-2! #TORvATL pic.twitter.com/zgoTYq7a4V

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 27, 2019

Six of Pozuelo’s seven goals have come through two-goal performances, with the other two coming against Minnesota United and NYCFC. 

13. Sam Johnson, F, Real Salt Lake

One of the more underrated signings in MLS over the offseason picked up his first brace in a Real Salt Lake shirt Saturday night.

Sam Johnson bagged a pair of goals in the rivalry match with Sporting Kansas City to increase his total to three goals in the last four games. 

It's a classic poacher's goal for Sam Johnson, lurking at the back post! #RSLvSKC pic.twitter.com/7afzOE58ER

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 30, 2019

Johnson and his RSL teammates are one point out of the playoff places in the Western Conference ahead of a midweek matchup with the Columbus Crew. 

12. Nani, M, Orlando City SC

Orlando City forward Nani (17) walks on the field prior to the game against the Vancouver Whitecaps at Orlando City Stadium. (Douglas DeFelice-USA TODAY Sports)

Nani reached another milestone in an Orlando City shirt by earning his first two-assist game since joining the Lions. 

The Portuguese winger played a hand in both of the goals netted by James O’Connor side in it 2-0 win over the Columbus Crew.

The former Manchester United star has eight goals and six assists in 15 matches. 

11. Miles Robinson, D, Atlanta United

May 19, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; Atlanta United defender Miles Robinson (12) heads the ball during the first half against the New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena. (Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports)

Even though Atlanta United gave up three goals in Week 17, they still boast the best defense in the Eastern Conference. 

Miles Robinson and co. have let in 15 goals, which is the best in the East by four tallies. 

The Five Stripes have the second-best defensive mark in MLS behind LAFC and they are one of four teams that have conceded fewer than 20 strikes. 

10. Valentin Castellanos, M, New York City FC 

Say what you want about the antics of Valentin Castellanos on Saturday night, but he was the most effective and lively attacker in NYCFC’s 4-2 win over the Philadelphia Union.

Castellanos played a key role in earning the pair of penalties that led to the first two NYCFC strikes, which were netted by Maxi Moralez. 

Four goals made in Argentina #ForTheCity pic.twitter.com/WnOY18wTyJ

— New York City FC (@NYCFC) June 30, 2019

The 20-year-old Argentinian finished off NYCFC’s victory with a pair of second-half strikers against a frustrated Union side to bring the Pigeons within six points of first place in the East. 

9. Diego Chara, M, Portland Timbers

Jun 30, 2019; Portland, OR, USA; FC Dallas midfielder Paxton Pomykal (19) is defended by Portland Timbers defender Julio Cascante (18) and midfielder Diego Chara (21) during the first half at Providence Park. (Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports)

When you struggle to find words to describe how well a defensive midfielder is playing, that means he’s been performing at a high level for a long time. 

Diego Chara produced another masterclass showing in the middle of the park for the Timbers in their 1-0 win over FC Dallas on Sunday night.

The tenacious Colombian made six tackles, two clearances, completed 86.8 percent of his 53 passes and even handed out a pair of key passes in attack. 

8. Wayne Rooney, F, D.C. United

Wayne Rooney delivered one of the defining moments of the season with his stunning half-field volley last Wednesday night against Orlando City. 

We are not worthy, @WayneRooney! pic.twitter.com/oFPyGOXHSl

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 27, 2019

Rooney also scored a late penalty on Saturday to hand the Black-and-Red a valuable point at home against Toronto FC. 

Saturday’s goal secured the second 10-goal season for the English legend in MLS. He needs three more tallies to top his output from a year ago. 

7. Justin Meram, M, Atlanta United

Justin Meram produced one of the top goals in a week filled with Goal of the Year candidates. 

The 30-year-old produced a brace in his second start for Atlanta United, a 2-1 win over the Montreal Impact.

JUSTIN. MERAM. EVERYBODY.

What a way to score your first goal for #ATLUTD, @JustinMeram pic.twitter.com/sEubeIcCq1

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) June 29, 2019

In fact, the goals were the first two of the season for Meram, who was traded from Columbus to Atlanta in May. 

6. Jan Gregus, M, Minnesota United

May 25, 2019; Saint Paul, MN, Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota United midfielder Jan Gregus (8) celebrates a victory over the Houston Dynamo after a match at Allianz Field. (Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports)

Jan Gregus was one the many Minnesota United players benefitting from FC Cincinnati’s wretched defending on Saturday. 

The Slovakian provided an assist on three of the seven goals tallied by Adrian Heath’s team in the rout at Allianz Field. 

Before Saturday, Gregus’ other four assists came sparingly, with the last one coming on May 25. 

5. Ike Opara, D, Minnesota United

In his 163rd MLS regular-season game, Ike Opara recorded the first brace of his career. 

The center back, who has never scored more than three goals in a single season, was the only player to bag multiple goals for the Loons in their thrashing of MLS’ expansion side FC Cincinnati. 

There's the opener!@ikeopara gets the touch on it and @MNUFC lead. #MINvCIN pic.twitter.com/9yguifpAqm

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 29, 2019

In 15 games this season, Opara has scored on each of the three shots on goal he’s recorded, and with one more goal, he will have a new career high in strikes. 

4. Vako, M, San Jose Earthquakes

Vako turned in a pair of splendid attacking performances for the Quakes in Week 17 by scoring three goals.

The Republic of Georgia international opened his account for the week with a pair of tallies in Wednesday’s win over Houston. 

Vako with the early strike for #Quakes74! #SJvHOU pic.twitter.com/aybih4Bs8U

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 27, 2019

He followed that performance up with a goal against the Galaxy, which helped him earn MLS Player of the Week honors. 

3. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC 

May 24, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Carlos Vela (10) celebrates a goal by midfielder Latif Blessing (7) during the first half against the Montreal Impact at Banc of California Stadium. (Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports)

The king of the MLS Player Rankings has been dethroned for at least one week. 

Carlos Vela, who had his second double-digit goal and assist season locked up before the Concacaf Gold Cup break, failed to contribute to a goal in LAFC’s shutout loss to Colorado. 

Friday marked the first time since May 4 that Vela failed to play a role in a single LAFC goal. 

2. Maxi Moralez, M, New York City FC 

While we’ve been busy engulfing ourselves in international competitions, Maxi Moralez has surged up the MLS assist chart to first place. 

Moralez brought his assist total up to 11 on Saturday, when he scored twice and assisted on the other two NYCFC goals. 

9 – Maxi Moralez finished with nine goals+assists in #MLS play in the month of June, four more than any other player. Soaring. #OptaPerformersOfTheMonth #ForTheCity pic.twitter.com/sgDzz7Iy35

— OptaJack (@OptaJack) July 1, 2019

Saturday’s performance came after Moralez produced one goal and three assists against FC Cincinnati on June 6. 

1. Brian Fernandez, F, Portland Timbers 

Brian Fernandez has scored six goals in five league games for the Portland Timbers. 

Fernandez’s strike against FC Dallas, which was the lone goal of the contest, came off a thunderous shot from right outside the top of the penalty area. 

"Of course it's him!"

Brian Fernandez is on an unstoppable tear. #RCTID pic.twitter.com/IdvCaip70z

— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) July 1, 2019

The goal against FC Dallas helped Fernandez break MLS history as the first player to score in five consecutive games to start his career. 

The post MLS Player Rankings Week 17: Fernandez, Moralez top list thanks to incredible form appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

After an abbreviated Week 16, the MLS regular season returned in full force with 18 games over the course of last Wednesday and the weekend.

As promised, there’s some significant movement in this week’s MLS Power Rankings for Week 17, with New York City FC moving up three spots to No. 2 after a come-from-behind 4-2 win over the Philadelphia Union, which dropped two spots.

The biggest movers were the San Jose Earthquakes, who skyrocketed nine spots following a stunning 3-0 win over the LA Galaxy in the latest edition of the Cali Clasico.

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, Robert Jonas and Emily Olsen contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 17: San Jose Earthquakes make seismic shift to top 10 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Sparks are sure to fly this Thursday when the Colorado Rapids play host to the visiting New England Revolution – and it won’t just be from the postgame fireworks.

The Fourth of July match will mark the return to Colorado for Revolution left back Edgar Castillo, who was traded to New England as part of a three-team deal which landed forward Diego Rubio in Colorado.

It was a signature move for Rapids executive vice president of operations and GM Padraig Smith, who looked to bring in proven MLS talent while lowering the overall age profile of Colorado’s roster. But it was an emotional one for fans, who had grown to embrace Castillo, and for the New Mexico native himself, who had expressed a desire to stay.

“I have love for Colorado,” Castillo told media following Monday’s training in Foxboro. “I had a great time being there for a year. Now, I’m on this side and I have to give it my all here, representing the Revolution.”

It’s easy to see why Castillo enjoyed his time in Colorado. Despite the team’s struggles and failure to make the playoffs, he experienced a breakout debut to MLS, starting all but six of the Rapids matches last season while contributing three goals and five assists.

In Colorado, Castillo was well loved by teammates as well, voted Player’s Player of the Year in the team’s end of season banquet last year. As a result, his anticipated Rapids reunion has been a welcome one.

“No, no, no,” he responded on the subject of whether or not there’s been trash talking leading up to this week’s match.  “I’ve got a couple of boys there; Timmy [Howard], Jack Price. It’s going to be a good game, and I’m looking forward to going back.”

While it was good times in Colorado for the 32-year-old, his days in New England have been different. The Revs started slow out the gate, going 2-8-2 before the eventual firing of manager Brad Friedel.

The team has struggled, but so has Castillo, who has tallied just two assists in 12 matches offensively. Defensively, he’s also been outplayed by both opponents and his younger competition at left back, including a performance which led to an early benching in a 1-1 draw with D.C. United.

Things have changed for both Colorado and New England of late since their respective coaching changes, however. Both clubs are currently riding unbeaten streaks with New England unbeaten in its last six matches and Colorado’s unbeaten streak now at eight games.

Castillo has kept an eye on Conor Casey’s resurrection of the Rapids and drew some parallels to the change in team environment New England has likewise experienced under Bruce Arena.

“[Conor Casey] is a great guy. He’s a calm guy,” Castillo explained. “That’s what you need in the locker room, like we have [in New England]. A lot of things changed here, so we feel much better. That’s how it is. That’s how they get all the results they’ve been having.”

Castillo is one to give credit where credit is due. But when the whistle blows for kickoff, the focus will be on getting a win against his former team.

“That’s good for them, but now it’s for us now going there and getting three points.”

The post Edgar Castillo looking forward to Rapids reunion as resurging Revolution visits Colorado appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The San Jose Earthquakes and Colorado Rapids walked away from Week 17 with statement victories that could propel them toward playoff positions. 

Just two months ago, the thought of San Jose and Colorado in the playoffs would have been snickered at by many involved with both clubs, but they have produced stunning, 180-degree turns in a short amount of time. 

Matías Almeyda has made his mark on the Quakes and built them into one of the most aesthetically pleasing sides in Major League Soccer. 

That was on display once again in Saturday’s 3-0 Cali Clasico victory over the Los Angeles Galaxy, in which Vako starred in attack once again. 

With three goals and one assist in two Week 17 games against Houston and the Galaxy, Vako played a role in four of the five goals scored by the Quakes,. 

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

The attacking awakening from the Republic of Georgia international is a welcome sight after he produced one goal and one assist before the Concacaf Gold Cup break. 

Since April 20, the Quakes have earned points in all but one of their 11 games and enter July on a six-game unbeaten run. 

Part of the success has to do with the scoring form of Vako and Chris Wondolowski, but Almeyda’s tactical decisions must be praised as well. 

Carving out a spot for Tommy Thompson at right back has done wonders for the American’s career, and he earned the extra reward of a goal on Saturday night. 

Colorado interim manager Conor Casey, who needs to have the “interim” tag removed, has the Rapids on a seven-game unbeaten run, and they have won three out of their past four games. 

Jun 28, 2019; Commerce City, CO, USA; Colorado Rapids interim head coach Conor Casey celebrates with forward Kei Kamara (23) and defender Sam Vines (13) after a match against the Los Angeles FC at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park. (Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports)

Friday’s weather-delayed victory over Los Angeles FC confirmed the work Casey is doing in Colorado to clean up the mess left by Anthony Hudson.

Casey has gotten the best out of a roster that underperformed during the Hudson era, and his team has been able to win in a variety ways. 

On Friday, the Rapids’ lone goal came from Danny Wilson off a set piece. It was one of the team’s two shots on target.

Under Casey, the Rapids have earned a trio of 1-0 victories, scored three times in a pair of wins and fought to road draws in Philadelphia and Vancouver. 

Colorado’s turnaround in form has led the team up to 11th in the Western Conference, ahead of Sporting Kansas City and five points back of the final playoff position. 

While Casey is working wonders in Colorado, FC Cincinnati interim manager Yoann Damet is struggling to get results with the expansion side. 

FC Cincinnati’s defense was once again in disarray in the 7-1 thumping it received from Minnesota United on Saturday in front of a national audience. 

During its six-game losing streak, the expansion side has been outscored 24-5, with two of its tallies being own goals scored by New York City FC. 

Some of FC Cincinnati’s struggles can be linked to injuries and international absences, but the players on the field and the manager have to be held accountable for the brutal showing at Allianz Field, which allowed the Loons to break out of a three-game losing skid. 

Minnesota’s 7-1 win was the most shocking result because of the disparity in score, but the victories earned by San Jose and Colorado could be the most important from Week 17 when we look back on it in a few weeks and months. 

With MLS back in full swing, there were plenty of other talking points that caught our attention. 

Goals of the weekend

Justin Meram, Atlanta United

ARE YOU KIDDING, @JUSTINMERAM?

WHAT A GOAL.#UniteAndConquer pic.twitter.com/4eTrCZrNwL

— FOX Sports South (@FOXSportsSouth) June 29, 2019

Hassani Dotson, Minnesota United

HASSANI DOTSON WITH A ROCKET pic.twitter.com/q92ILQDUjR

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 29, 2019

Late drama

Three teams scored goals in the 90th minute or later on Saturday, with two of them being game-winners. 

New England’s Teal Bunbury scored the first late game-winner of the night by knocking in a slow-rolling pass from Cristian Penilla past Houston’s Joe Willis. 

Teal Bunbury with the late go ahead goal! #NERevs take the lead! #NEvHOU pic.twitter.com/bjLtmTGtMk

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) June 30, 2019

The other game-winner came from Seattle’s Kelvin Leerdam, who saved three points for the Sounders with his right boot after a controversial call took away a strike from 16-year-old Daniel Leyva. 

AT THE DEATH! Kelvin Leerdam with the winner!!!#SEAvVAN pic.twitter.com/9VJuNhRJ51

— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) June 30, 2019

DC United benefited from a VAR ruling to set up their game-tying goal, which was scored from the spot by Wayne Rooney. 

I’ll have one of those beer showers please! @dcunited pic.twitter.com/RAYZpO5Toq

— James Majewski (@jmajewski_) June 30, 2019

Official outrage

Once again, the MLS referees took center stage in a few key moments, and some of the top players across the league didn’t hold back with their criticism of key events in their respective matches. 

Alejandro Bedoya, who was called for a penalty in the second half of Philadelphia’s game with NYCFC, was quick to lash out on Twitter on Saturday night. 

Absolute joke of a penalty call that changed the complexion of the match.
You’d think I had hit him with an uppercut. #BroadwayIsDownTheRoad https://t.co/mIxWjaum4B

— Alejandro Bedoya (@AleBedoya17) June 30, 2019

Toronto FC forward Jozy Altidore took time out from Concacaf Gold Cup quarterfinals preparation to defend his teammates for a call the Reds did not receive against DC United. 

MLS refs are some of the worst in the world. Absolutely horrible. https://t.co/XDBeERVlwQ

— Jozy Altidore (@JozyAltidore) June 30, 2019

Levya’s gorgeous goal for the Sounders was also called off after VAR ruled Vancouver goalkeeper Zac MacMath was fouled in the box. 

DANNY LEYVA GOAL. FROM DISTANCE.

SEA 1 | VAN 0 #SEAvVAN pic.twitter.com/y3PP7p866E

— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) June 30, 2019

Brian Fernández, he literally scores whenever he wants

With his goal against FC Dallas on Sunday night, Portland’s Brian Fernández set a league record for the most consecutive games with a goal to start his MLS career. 

Brian Fernandez of the Portland Timbers #RCTID has scored for a fifth consecutive game to open his #MLS career, setting the league record.
Fernandez has now scored in each of his first seven games with the Timbers over all competitions, also the all-time league mark.#PORvDAL

— MLS Communications (@MLS_PR) July 1, 2019

Fernández now has six goals in five games. To put that into more context, 11 of the 24 teams in MLS have a leading scorer with six or fewer goals, and those players have had much more time to score on an MLS field than Fernández this season. 

Stock up, stock down

Stock way up: Diego Chará

Jun 30, 2019; Portland, OR, USA; FC Dallas midfielder Paxton Pomykal (19) is defended by Portland Timbers defender Julio Cascante (18) and midfielder Diego Chara (21) during the first half at Providence Park. (Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports)

While Fernández has been busy lightning nets on fire, Diego Chará has been up to his old tricks stifling opposing attackers. 

The Colombian, who is still somehow one of the most underappreciated players on a league-wide level, turned in his best performance of the season in the Week 17 nightcap at Providence Park.

With the attack firing on all cylinders and Chará in incredible form, it is going to be hard to stop the Timbers train from steaming up the Western Conference. 

Stock way down: Columbus Crew

Jun 29, 2019; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Crew SC midfielder David Guzman (right) looks for a call against Orlando City SC midfielder Oriol Rosell (20) during the second half at MAPFRE Stadium. (Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports)

Yikes. Just yikes. 

If it weren’t for FC Cincinnati’s utter competence this season, we’d be talking more about how much of a letdown the Columbus Crew have been in Caleb Porter’s first season. 

The Crew dropped a 2-0 result at home to Orlando City on Saturday to fall to 5-11-2 on the season and 4-5-2 at home. Only FC Cincinnati, Orlando and the Crew have home records below .500 in MLS. 

Since April 6, the Crew have four points from 12 games with losing streaks of two, three and five games. 

It’s not getting any easier for the Crew with Zack Steffen off to Manchester City and Gyasi Zardes and Wil Trapp likely out for two more games due to international duty. 

Stock up: The Bruce Arena Revs

Jun 26, 2019; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Revolution head coach Bruce Arena reacts during the second half against the Philadelphia Union at Gillette Stadium. (Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports)

New England got four points out of two home games in Week 17, but it is trending in the right direction with Bruce Arena righting the ship.

The Revs battled until the end on Saturday to knock off Houston and extend their unbeaten run to six games. 

With Arena turning the team around and three points separating them from the last playoff spot in the East, the Revs have a real chance to resurrect their season by sneaking into the postseason. 

Stock down: DC’s home form 

Jun 29, 2019; Washington, DC, USA; D.C. United midfielder Lucas Rodriguez (11) leaps to pass the ball as Toronto FC midfielder Jay Chapman (14) defends in the first half at Audi Field. The game finished a 1-1 draw. (Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports)

DC United just finished a four-game home stand at Audi Field with one win and three draws. 

In an Eastern Conference where the margins are so incredibly thin, the Black-and-Red did themselves no favors by settling for draws with Chicago, San Jose and Toronto, the last of which occurred on Saturday. 

At the end of the season, poor runs of form like this get remembered as the difference-makers in the standings. A win on Saturday would have put United in first place ahead of the Union, who suffered their own let down against New York City FC.

Stock down: Sergio Santos

Jun 8, 2019; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Union forward Sergio Santos (17) and New York Red Bulls defender Kyle Duncan (6) battle for the ball during the first half at Talen Energy Stadium. (Derik Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports)

Sergio Santos came into the Union this offseason with plenty of intrigue because of his scoring prowess in South America. 

The Brazilian has one goal in his past eight games, and even more concerning is the one shot on goal he’s managed during that stretch.

With Andrew Wooten set to enter the squad on July 9, Santos’ playing time could evaporate, if it doesn’t already in two games against Orlando this week. 

The post MLS Week 17 Weekend Review: Quakes, Rapids earn statement victories appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – Following a 27-day Gold Cup break, lead leaders LAFC made the trip to face a hot Colorado Rapids team as both sides looked to extend their unbeaten runs.

By night’s end, Colorado earned the 1-0 win by virtue of a second half goal from centerback Danny Wilson, handing the visitors their second loss of 2019. The result extended Colorado’s unbeaten streak to seven games, while LAFC’s unbeaten run ended at eight games.

“Just a great performance,” said Rapids interim head coach Conor Casey. “We were going against a really great team tonight and they showed their resiliency.”

Facing the league-leading offense with 39 goals scored and led by MLS Golden Boot leader Carlos Vela, Colorado opted for a defensive look with Jack Price and Danny Wilson starting deep in the midfield to shield the backline.

“We took a good look at LA and we saw that teams would start the game compact and when they spread out, they would get hurt. We wanted to be compact for the entire game,” Casey explained.

It was a strategy which proved to be effective as LAFC was held to just two shots in the opening half with none on target, despite holding nearly 64 percent possession before the break.

Offensively, the Rapids had limited opportunities with just three shots in the first half. Their most dangerous chance came in the 21st minute, but the header from Lalas Abubakar floated well above the crossbar.

Colorado nearly went in front to open the second half as Andre Shinyashiki’s shot from the left side of the box was deflected just outside the far post for a corner.

On the ensuing corner, the Rapids did take the lead, however. Price’s corner found the head of Wilson to give Colorado the opening goal and the 1-0 lead.

Shortly after the goal, the match was postponed on a one-hour lightning delay.

At the resumation of the match in the 52nd minute, both teams opted for attacking substitutions as Nicolas Mezquida came into the match for Colorado while Adrien Perez entered the match for LAFC.

“With the break we wanted to use that time to prepare and get a player in there,” said Casey. “But it didn’t really affect us at all.”

The move from Bob Bradley nearly led to an equalizer for the visitors as Perez had a golden opportunity in the 71st minute, but his shot went over the crossbar.

Despite a continued offensive onslaught from LAFC, Rapids goalkeeper came up big with three saves – all after the rain delay – preserving the win for Colorado.

Now with 19 points on the season, the result kept Colorado within striking distance of the seventh and final playoff spot, currently held by Minnesota United (21 points).

Colorado will now turn its focus to its annual Fourth of July match, hosting New England next Thursday (9 p.m. ET). LAFC continues its two-game road trip with a trip to face Sporting Kansas City next Wednesday (9 p.m. ET).

The post Colorado downs high-powered LAFC, extends unbeaten streak to seven games. appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

After an almost four-week hiatus from Major League Soccer action due to an international break, Los Angeles FC returns on Friday at 10 pm E.T. to face the Colorado Rapids at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park in Commerce City, Col. In those four weeks, LAFC competed in two matches for the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup: a 3-0 win over Real Salt Lake on June 11 and a 3-1 win over the San Jose Earthquakes on June 20. 

The international break may be over, but several LAFC players will be unavailable for this contest due to international duty. Goalkeeper Tyler Miller and defender Walker Zimmerman (United States) and midfielders Mark-Anthony Kaye (Canada) and Peter-Lee Vassell (Jamaica) are still away representing their countries in the Gold Cup. 

Heading into the match, LAFC remains in first place in the Western Conference with an 11-1-4 record overall and 4-1-3 mark on the road. The team is undefeated in its last eight matches, with its lone loss of the season coming on April 17 away to the Vancouver Whitecaps. LAFC faced Colorado twice last season and came away with two shutout wins.  

The Rapids have turned their season around after a rough start. They are on a six-match undefeated streak, with their last loss coming on May 11 at home against Real Salt Lake. Colorado’s first win of this current undefeated streak, May 19 against the Los Angeles Galaxy, was its first win of the season. The Rapids’ last match was a 2-2 draw against Vancouver, with goals coming from Diego Rubio and Andre Shinyashiki. 

Officials for Friday night’s match in Colorado are Dave Gantar (center), Philippe Briere (AR1), Chris Wattam (AR2), Alejandro Mariscal (4th), and Jose Carlos Rivero (VAR). 

The post LAFC heads to Colorado to face Rapids appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

It was another abbreviated week in Major League Soccer with the Concacaf Gold Cup group stage winding down. Only half of the teams were active in Week 16 so there will again be little movement in the Pro Soccer USA MLS Power Rankings.

The one team that impressed the most was the Portland Timbers, who rocked up the rankings this week after an eye-opening 4-0 win over the Houston Dynamo at Providence Park Saturday.

With a full slate of games, including six in the midweek, there’s bound to be changes ahead.

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 Joe Tansey contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 16: Portland Timbers rocket into top 10 appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

VANCOUVER — Despite being without five players on international duty, the Vancouver Whitecaps rallied from an early two-goal deficit to level late through Yordy Reyna to forge a 2-2 draw with the Colorado Rapids in front of 19,893 at BC Place Saturday night. 

Former Caps Kei Kamara, and Nicolás Mezquida both played big roles in the game, but it was Reyna who came up with the final act. 

Kamara, in fact, had the first chance of the game, testing goalkeeper Zac MacMath with a shot from eight yards out in the 8th minute. 

From that corner, the Rapids scored their opening goal. Mezquida curled in the corner from the left. It was missed by the entire Caps’ backline allowing Diego Rubio to nod it across the line at the far post. 

In the 20th minute, the Rapids doubled the lead. A cross found Kamara unmarked in the box, allowing him to head the ball past MacMath to an open Andre Shinyashiki and the winger tapped the ball across the line. 

Kamara and Mezquida, in particular, stood out during this stage. In the 23rd minute, Kamara hit the post, the rebound then ricocheted to Mezquida, but his shot was cleared off the line by Erik Godoy. 

“Those 25 minutes will be addressed,” Whitecaps coach Marc Dos Santos said. “We spoke all week about set plays and counter-attacks. Of course, when your center backs are at the Gold Cup then it takes time to adjust.”

The Whitecaps were all over the place, and even their first shot on target by Reyna in the 32nd could not settle the nerves. On the other side, MacMath bobbled a Kamara cross from the right and the ball nearly landed in Vancouver’s goal. 

“Obviously, it was not a good start for us,” Fredy Montero said. 

In the 45th minute, the Whitecaps were handed a lifeline. Ali Adnan was brought down in the area and Montero stepped up to convert the penalty to make it 2-1. 

“We spoke in the locker room that we need to give more and couldn’t lose this game,” Montero said. “I think we did just that in the second half.”

Despite the goal, it was still an uphill battle for the Whitecaps in the second half. The Caps certainly managed to put on the pressure, but also struggled to get through Colorado’s well-organized backline. 

Colorado seemed comfortable to sit back and absorb all the pressure and the second half was in stark contrast to the action-packed first 45 minutes in that it lacked true goalscoring opportunities for either team. 

#VANvCOL match analysis for @ProSoccerUSAcom.

Former #VWFC stars shine for #Rapids96

#Whitecaps resurgent

Yordy Reyna miracle freekick pic.twitter.com/CZ3EgcJmBd

— Manuel Veth (@ManuelVeth) June 23, 2019

It took until the 73rd minute for the Caps to finally appear dangerously in front of Tim Howard’s goal. But both Montero and Reyna had their shots blocked by Colorado defenders. One minute later, Hwang In-beom tested Howard with a shot from inside the box. 

Finally, in the 80th minute, the Whitecaps equalized when Reyna curled the ball over the wall, caromed of the inside of the near post and finally crossed the line. 

“For me it was normal,” Dos Santos said about the free kick. “If you are in training you see him do it all the time. He trains with the mannequins all the time. I thought he would score another one actually.”

“We came back from 2-0 and almost made it 3-2,” midfielder Felipe said. “We had chances to score the third, but need to be more clinical.”

Vancouver Whitecaps (4-3-3)

MacMath – Adnan, Rose, Godoy, Nerwinski (Sutter, 63′) – Felipe, Erice, In-beom – Reyna, Montero, Venuto (‘PC’, 69′)

Colorado Rapids (4-2-3-1)

Howard – Vines, T. Smith, Abubakar, Rosenberry – Acosta, D. Wilson – Shinyashiki (Anderson, 77′), Mezquida, Rubio – Kamara

The post Yordy Reyna salvages point for Vancouver Whitecaps in 2-2 draw with Colorado Rapids appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

It was an abbreviated Week 15 in Major League Soccer with only 12 teams in action ahead of the Concacaf Gold Cup break.

As such, movement was minimal. The Philadelphia Union further secured their spot at No. 2 with a stunning come-from-behind win over the New York Red Bulls, who dropped four spots to No. 7.

Following a 5-2 win over FC Cincinnati, New York City FC climbed two spots to No. 5. That’s also the drop for the Seattle Sounders FC after a 2-1 loss at Montreal.

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 writer Dylan Butler contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 15: NYCFC enter top 5 before Gold Cup break appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.