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Nani inspired Orlando City to a resounding win in MLS, while LA Galaxy’s miserable run continued on Sunday. Former Manchester United star Nani scored a brace as Orlando crushed FC Cincinnati 5-1 in Florida. However, they had to come from behind at home after Darren Mattocks’ 24th-minute opener for Cincinnati. Tesho Akindele’s clinical finish brought […]

The post MLS Review: Nani brace lifts Orlando, Galaxy stunned by Rapids appeared first on Soccer News.

The post MLS Review: Nani brace lifts Orlando, Galaxy stunned by Rapids appeared first on Soccer News.

Nani inspired Orlando City to a resounding win in MLS, while LA Galaxy’s miserable run continued on Sunday. Former Manchester United star Nani scored a brace as Orlando crushed FC Cincinnati 5-1 in Florida. However, they had to come from behind at home after Darren Mattocks’ 24th-minute opener for Cincinnati. Tesho Akindele’s clinical finish brought […]

The post MLS Review: Nani brace lifts Orlando, Galaxy stunned by Rapids appeared first on Soccer News.

The post MLS Review: Nani brace lifts Orlando, Galaxy stunned by Rapids appeared first on Soccer News.

Competition: MLS Market: LAFC win Odds: 19/20 @ Bet 365 Looking to extend their buffer at the top of the Western Conference, Los Angeles FC will travel to a struggling FC Dallas in the early hours of Monday morning. Starting with the hosts, after suffering a 2-0 loss when they made the trip to LAFC last […]

The post LAFC 19/20 to beat FC Dallas in Monday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

The post LAFC 19/20 to beat FC Dallas in Monday’s MLS matchup appeared first on Soccer News.

Wayne Rooney scored but DC United were beaten in MLS as record-breaker Chris Wondolowski stole the show on Saturday. Rooney netted his seventh goal of the campaign in DC’s 2-1 loss to Houston Dynamo at BBVA Compass Stadium. The former Manchester United and England captain tapped in an Ulises Segura cross in the 46th minute. […]

The post MLS Review: Rooney scores in DC defeat, Wondolowski breaks record appeared first on Soccer News.

The post MLS Review: Rooney scores in DC defeat, Wondolowski breaks record appeared first on Soccer News.

San Jose Earthquakes forward Chris Wondolowski has finally passed Landon Donovan for the most regular-season goals in MLS history. The veteran former United States striker has long been chasing Donovan’s total of 145 and seized the record against Chicago Fire on Saturday. Wondolowski scored four goals in a 4-1 rout of the Fire to take […]

The post Derby strikes and play-off failings – Wondolowski´s MLS goals record in Opta numbers appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Derby strikes and play-off failings – Wondolowski´s MLS goals record in Opta numbers appeared first on Soccer News.

Atlanta United is back. 

All of the early season questions regarding Frank de Boer’s managerial style and the potential hangover from winning MLS Cup have flown out the window. 

The Five Stripes are the hottest team in Major League Soccer with five straight wins, all of which have been shutouts. 

The shutout streak dates to April 20, when the Five Stripes conceded two goals to FC Dallas. 

Everything seems to be going right for De Boer’s side. Miles Robinson is playing at an incredibly high level at center back, Josef Martinez is heating up in front of goal and Pity Martinez got on the scoresheet for the first time in Week 11. 

Possibly the biggest test of the season awaits Atlanta on Sunday in the form of a road trip to Red Bull Arena.

Chris Armas’ New York Red Bulls did not play Wednesday, like Atlanta did in Vancouver, and have won three of their last four games. 

The Red Bulls have already knocked off FC Dallas and LA Galaxy during their winning run. A win over Atlanta would serve as a statement to the rest of the Eastern Conference that they will have a say in who lands the top seed. 

Atlanta is making a surge up the table and the Red Bulls could land in a playoff position if results go their way this weekend. 

But the teams already at the top of the East, D.C. United and Philadelphia, won’t make life easy for the perennial powers to surge into first place. 

The Union face a test of their own Saturday with the Seattle Sounders going into Talen Energy Stadium.

The Sounders will be without Jordan Morris, who suffered an injury Wednesday against Orlando City, but they still have Raul Ruidiaz, Nicolas Lodeiro and Cristian Roldan at their disposal.

Philadelphia’s back line has held up well during its three-game winning streak, but it hasn’t faced a well-rounded attack like Seattle possesses, even if Brian Schmetzer rotates his squad a bit. 

D.C. faces a test of its own on the road against the Houston Dynamo. Saturday’s clash at BBVA Compass Stadium comes after the Black-and-Red picked up a road point in Toronto. 

The complexion of the East standings will once again change after Week 12, and it appears to be the more competitive of the two conferences with Los Angeles FC looking unstoppable on top of the Western Conference. 

Week 12 Weekend Schedule

Saturday, May 18

New England Revolution at Montreal Impact (1 p.m. ET, TVA Sport, ESPN+)

Toronto FC at Real Salt Lake (3 p.m. ET, TSN 2, ESPN+) 

Chicago Fire at San Jose Earthquakes (3:30 p.m. ET, Univision) 

Seattle Sounders at Philadelphia Union (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Columbus Crew at Minnesota United (8 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Vancouver Whitecaps at Sporting Kansas City (8:30 p.m. ET, TSN 1, ESPN+) 

D.C. United at Houston Dynamo (8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Sunday, May 19

FC Cincinnati at Orlando City (3 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Atlanta United at New York Red Bulls (5 p.m. ET, FS1) 

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

Colorado Rapids at LA Galaxy (8 p.m. ET, TSN 1, ESPN+) 

Storylines to Watch

1. Montreal Starts Huge Home Stretch

May 11, 2019; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Montreal Impact midfielder Samuel Piette (6) plays the ball against FC Cincinnati in the second half at Nippert Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

After playing eight road games in 11 weeks, the Montreal Impact finally have a run of home games.

The fourth-place Impact kick off a stretch of four home contests in five games in the first match of the weekend slate against the New England Revolution. 

Home games against Real Salt Lake, Orlando City and Seattle are on the docket before the Concacaf Gold Cup break, and if Remi Garde’s team can put together a nice run of form, it will be in terrific shape near the top of the East. 

What’s most remarkable about the Impact’s 20-point start is they have played the majority of their matches without Ignacio Piatti. 

However, there are still some concerns about finding the back of the net. Montreal has scored 15 goals and contains the one of three negative goal differentials held by teams currently in playoff positions.

2. Can Toronto FC Be More Clinical In Final Third? 

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

The other Eastern Conference side in Canada is coming off a performance in which it scored zero goals off 36 shots. 

The Reds put plenty of pressure on the D.C. United defense, but they were unable to walk away with three points, which could cost them since they have dropped eight points at BMO Field already. 

The good news for Greg Vanney’s side is it faces a Real Salt Lake side with a -5 goal differential Saturday afternoon, but the game is at altitude and comes at the end of a five-game stretch in two weeks. 

Toronto isn’t expected to fire off a high volume of shots once again, but if it can convert on a few chances against a susceptible defense, it could end the arduous run of games on a high note. 

3. Can Columbus Correct Its Poor Form? 

May 11, 2019; Columbus, OH, USA; Columbus Crew SC midfielder Wil Trapp (6) dribbles the ball in the second half of the match against the Los Angeles FC at MAPFRE Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

The Columbus Crew reversed their form a week ago with a home win over the LA Galaxy, but then Caleb Porter’s team ran into the LAFC buzzsaw.

The Crew entered the season as one of the contenders in the East, but they have not looked the part since the start of April.

Columbus has lost six of its last seven games and faces a trip to Allianz Field to take on Minnesota United. 

The Loons have held LA Galaxy, Seattle and D.C. to one goal in their last three home games as they turn the new stadium into a fortress. 

Columbus has been shut out on four occasions during its losing run, which doesn’t bode well for Saturday, but with little expectations to pull out points from Minnesota, the Crew could play looser and earn a much-needed positive result.

4. Is This The Week Sporting KC Breaks Out of Slump? 

May 12, 2019; Washington, D.C., USA; Sporting Kansas City defender Seth Sinovic (15) reacts during the second half against the D.C. United at Audi Field. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

On paper, Sporting Kansas City should pick up three points Saturday against a Vancouver Whitecaps side that fell at home Wednesday and faces a quick turnaround with travel across half of the continent. 

However, Peter Vermes’ side is dealing with a laundry list of injuries that includes Gerso Fernandes, Daniel Salloi and Graham Zusi, among many others. 

Matt Besler is on track to return to the side for the clash at Children’s Mercy Park, which has to be a huge positive for a team in need of a boost in confidence and momentum.

In their last four games, Sporting KC have conceded 12 goals. If Besler is able to provide a stopgap in the middle of the defense, they will solve one of the many issues that have caused the drop in form. 

Solving the struggles in front of goal could be tougher with Salloi and Gerso among the attackers on the injury list. Sporting KC have been shutout in their last two games and haven’t scored since the 4-4 thriller at home against New England. 

5. How Many Goals Will The Galaxy Score Against Colorado? 

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

By the time the final whistle sounds Sunday night at Dignity Health Sports Park, the Colorado Rapids defense could be burnt to ruins like King’s Landing after Daenerys Targaryen and her dragon stormed through town.

The Galaxy don’t have a dragon, but they do have a lion in their lineup with Zlatan Ibrahimovic. 

Ibrahimovic and the rest of the Galaxy attack are due to breakout after scoring once in the last two games of their three-game losing streak. 

Colorado enters on an eight-game losing streak and with a goal differential of -14. Even if the Galaxy play halfway to their potential, they could further bury the Rapids in the Western Conference basement. 

Player to Watch

Bill Hamid, GK, D.C. United

Mar 10, 2019; New York, NY, USA; D.C. United goalkeeper Bill Hamid (24) sets up for a shot during the first half against the New York City at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports

Bill Hamid is coming off a 12-save performance against Toronto FC, and he is expected to face another flurry of shots from Houston’s attack on Saturday. 

With some of his squad expected to be rotated, Ben Olsen has to rely on the veteran goalkeeper to come up with another standout performance to leave Texas with points. 

Matchup to Watch

Jackson Yueill, San Jose Earthquakes vs. Djordje Mihailovic, Chicago Fire

May 4, 2019; San Jose, CA, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Jackson Yueill (14) controls the ball ahead of FC Cincinnati midfielder Fatai Alashe (27) during the second half at Avaya Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

Two of the top young American midfielders in MLS could square off against each other in the national spotlight on Saturday.

Jackson Yueill has carved out a place in Matias Almeyda’s starting XI out in San Jose, and he could face Chicago’s dynamic young attacker Djordje Mihailovic, who received a call-up to the U.S. Men’s National Team January camp.

The trajectory of both players is surging in the right direction, and they are only going to play bigger roles moving forward for their respective sides. 

The post Week 12 MLS Weekend Preview: On-fire Atlanta United faces New York Red Bulls and more appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Carlos Vela scored again as Western Conference-leading Los Angeles FC preserved their unbeaten home record with a 2-0 victory over Dallas in MLS. Vela took his season tally to 13 goals by opening the scoring in Los Angeles on Thursday before Diego Rossi sealed the win late in the match. LAFC broke the deadlock in […]

The post Los Angeles FC 2 Dallas 0: Vela leads high-flying LAFC appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Los Angeles FC 2 Dallas 0: Vela leads high-flying LAFC appeared first on Soccer News.

The Columbus Crew have already given up on David Accam. The club from Ohio have announced that they have traded the Ghanain winger to expansion side Nashville SC. The player, however, will not play for his new club until March 2020, when Nashville actually get to enter the MLS. The Crew will receive $350k in […]

The post Accam traded to Nashville SC appeared first on Soccer News.

The post Accam traded to Nashville SC appeared first on Soccer News.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pro Soccer USA writers Dylan Butler and Emily Olsen contributed to this report.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

20. Aleksandar Katai, M, Chicago Fire

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

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

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

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

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

— Chicago Fire (@ChicagoFire) May 14, 2019

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

19. Jamiro Monteiro, M, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

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

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

Give and go-go-go!

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

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) May 12, 2019

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

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

18. Heber, F, New York City FC 

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

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

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

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

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

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

17. Cristian Roldan, M, Seattle Sounders

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

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

2⃣ weeks in a row @CristianRoldan is unreal

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

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

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

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

16. Diego Valeri, M, Portland Timbers

Previous Ranking: 11

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

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

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

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

15. Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, D, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

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

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

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

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

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

14. Fredy Montero, F, Vancouver Whitecaps

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

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

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

The Timbers killer.@_fredymontero opens the scoring.

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

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

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

13. Nicolas Gaitan, M, Chicago Fire

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

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

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

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

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

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

12. Kei Kamara, F, Colorado Rapids

Previous Ranking: 7

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

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

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

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

11. Alberth Elis, F, Houston Dynamo

Previous Ranking: 4 

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

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

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

10. Nani, M, Orlando City SC

Previous Ranking: 3

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

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

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

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

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

Previous Ranking: 17 

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

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

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

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

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

8. Jack Elliott, D, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: 9 

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

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

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

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

7. Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: 10 

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

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

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

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

6. Sam Johnson, F, Real Salt Lake

Previous Ranking: 14 

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

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

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

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

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

5. Kacper Przybylko, F, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: 8 

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

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

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

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

4. Eduard Atuesta, M, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: 6

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

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

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

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

3. Alejandro Pozuelo, M, Toronto FC 

Previous Ranking: 5

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

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

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

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

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

2. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, F, LA Galaxy

Previous Ranking: 1

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

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

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

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

1. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: 2 

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

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

That magical left foot…

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

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

— LAFC (@LAFC) May 13, 2019

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Goals of the Week 

Cristian Roldan, Seattle Sounders

More like Cristian RolDAMN. 

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

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

Nicolas Gaitan, Chicago Fire

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

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

— Chicago Fire (@ChicagoFire) May 12, 2019

Pity Martinez, Atlanta United

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

What a way to score your first goal!

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

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

Superstar Treatment? 

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

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

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

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

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) May 12, 2019

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

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

Helpful Tool For VAR 

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

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

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

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

Rocky Mountain Cup: Emphasis on the Rocky

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

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

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

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

Revs, FC Cincinnati Respond to Firings With Wins

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

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

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

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

Atlanta United Starting to Look Scary Good

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

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

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

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

Stock Up, Stock Down

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

Stock Up: Vancouver

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

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

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

Stock Up: Chicago

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

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

Stock Down: LA Galaxy

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

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

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

Stock Down: Sporting Kansas City 

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

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

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

Stock Down: Orlando City

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

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

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

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