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CARSON, Calif. — The LA Galaxy fell 1-0 to the Colorado Rapids on Sunday afternoon in front of an announced 19,015 at Dignity Health Sports Park. Both teams entered the match hoping to right the ship: the Galaxy were on a three-game losing streak and the Rapids an eight-game losing streak without a single win this season.

The Rapids got their way, and their first win, taking down the Galaxy 1-0 with an 82nd-minute goal by Andre Shinyashiki.

The Galaxy played without star forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who was suspended for the match. Uriel Antuna filled in for Ibrahimovic — the team’s leading scorer responsible for half of its 18 goals so far this season — in the starting line up as the team’s lone striker. And Favio Alvarez made his Galaxy debut, starting at right midfield. He was signed to the Galaxy roster May 7, but just recently became eligible for play after his paperwork cleared.

The Galaxy controlled the majority of the possession for the match, moving quickly in an offensive style preferred by head coach Guillermo Barros Schelotto. In the first half alone, the Galaxy had four shots on goal, compared to zero from Colorado. Former United States Men’s National Team goalkeeper Tim Howard made six vital saves throughout the match for the Rapids. 

Galaxy defender Diego Polenta was nearly ejected in the 43rd minute after a foul on Rapids forward Sam Nicholson. But the yellow card he received on the play stood after being reviewed by the Video Assistant Referee. 

Late in the game, the tide changed against the Galaxy and the Rapids capitalized on a counterattack. Shinyashiki and fellow forward Kei Kamara combined forces in front of the Galaxy defense, and Shinyashiki followed up a Kamara shot to put it into the back of the net. 

The Galaxy now have lost four consecutive matches. They will next travel to take on Orlando City SC Friday May 24 at 7 p.m. ET, once again without Ibrahimovic. 

Line ups:

LA Galaxy: David Bingham; Rolf Feltscher, Giancarlo Gonzalez, Daniel Steres, Diego Polenta; Favio Alvarez (Efrain Alvarez 75), Joe Corona, Sebastian Lletget, Emmanuel Boateng (Chris Pontius 68), Jonathan Dos Santos (Emil Cuello 86); Uriel Antuna.

Colorado Rapids: Tim Howard; Tommy Smith, Lalas Abubakar, Keegan Rosenberry, Deklan Wynne; Jack Price, Cole Bassett (Nicolas Mezquida 68), Kellyn Acosta; Sam Nicholson (Sam Vines 90+), Jonathan Lewis ( Andre Shinyashiki 75), Kei Kamara.  

This is an early recap. Check back for updates. 

The post Zlatan-less LA Galaxy fall 1-0 to Colorado Rapids appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

CARSON, Calif. – After 12 tries, the Colorado Rapids secured their first win of 2019, defeating the Los Angeles Galaxy 1-0 on am 82nd minute goal from Andre Shinyashiki. The result also ended an eight-game losing streak for Colorado.

“It certainly did feel like a complete performance,” said Rapids captain Tim Howard, who notched six saves to preserve a clean sheet and the win. “We’ve never dropped our heads but it’s not easy to come into work when you’re getting beat up every week. So, this will hopefully boost us.”

It marked the first win in more than seven months for the club and the first win for interim head coach Conor Casey, who took over for recently fired Anthony Hudson three weeks ago.

“I’m just incredibly proud of the guys,” Casey said post game. “They’ve worked so hard this season and haven’t quit. Tonight should give us a lot of confidence.”

It was the first win in three tries as the head coach of the Rapids, but players have taken note of Casey’s efforts to change the locker room mentality in the midst of a poor start to the season.

“I just think our mentality needed to be changed,” said Rapids rookie forward Andre Shinyashiki. “We’d been dwelling on ourselves and our losses. He’s come in and told us we have nothing to lose. We’ve got to adopt a mentality that we can win regardless of the situation and I think that’s what we’ve done and we saw the results of it today.”

The 37-year-old coach revealed his advice to the team heading into what has historically been a hostile environment for Colorado.

“I told them to be brave,” said Casey. “The underdog mentality is something that we’ve really captured and can drive us forward. I told them to play free, to play confident and we’ve got nothing to lose.”

Colorado remains at the bottom of the league with just five points accumulated thus far. Nonetheless, their latest win should bode well as they head home to face Columbus next weekend.

“We need to keep working,” said Casey. “We’ve been working hard all year and all season. We haven’t been far off. There’s a lot of games where we’ve been just one or two plays short. So we’ll go back to work.”

The post Rapids elated to earn first win under Conor Casey, snapping eight-game losing skid appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Goals of the Week 

Cristian Roldan, Seattle Sounders

More like Cristian RolDAMN. 

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

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

Nicolas Gaitan, Chicago Fire

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

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

— Chicago Fire (@ChicagoFire) May 12, 2019

Pity Martinez, Atlanta United

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

What a way to score your first goal!

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

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

Superstar Treatment? 

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

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

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

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

— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) May 12, 2019

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

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

Helpful Tool For VAR 

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

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

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

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

Rocky Mountain Cup: Emphasis on the Rocky

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

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

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

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

Revs, FC Cincinnati Respond to Firings With Wins

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

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

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

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

Atlanta United Starting to Look Scary Good

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

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

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

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

Stock Up, Stock Down

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

Stock Up: Vancouver

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

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

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

Stock Up: Chicago

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

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

Stock Down: LA Galaxy

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

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

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

Stock Down: Sporting Kansas City 

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

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

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

Stock Down: Orlando City

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

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

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

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

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

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

Historically Bad

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

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

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

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

Seb Anderson Struggles

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

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

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

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

VAR and controversy

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

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

pic.twitter.com/QpuiTICdXj

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

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

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

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

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

Both teams had differing views on the decisions.

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

Conversely, the Rapids felt hard done again by refereeing.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Week 11 Schedule

Friday, May 10

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

Saturday, May 11

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday, May 12

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

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

Storylines to Watch

1. Response To New Coaches

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. First Versus Fourth In East 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Can Columbus Keep Scoring? 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

4. Southeast Derby

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

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

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

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

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

5. Can Sporting KC Turn Around Recent Form? 

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

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

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

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

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

Player to Watch

Luciano Acosta, M, D.C. United

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

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

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

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

Matchup to Watch

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

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

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

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

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

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) May 9, 2019

Fantasy Player to Watch

Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United 

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

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

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

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

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

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

The post MLS Week 11 Preview: Rivalry games, new beginnings and more appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – With a defense conceding 2.7 goals per game this season, the Colorado Rapids are making moves to address the team’s defensive issues.

Following yesterday’s close of the MLS primary transfer window, Colorado announced the acquisition of defender Lalas Abubakar on a one-year loan from Columbus Crew SC in exchange for $125,000 in 2019 Targeted Allocation Money. The 24-year-old was a first round MLS SuperDraft pick of Columbus in 2017 and went on to make 35 appearances for the Crew, pitching in two goals.

“We are pleased to bring in a young and athletic defender in Lalas,” Rapids executive VP and GM, Pádraig Smith said. “He is a quick and physical centerback with good experience in the league.”

A Ghanaian international, Lalas holds a U.S. Green Card and will not take up an international roster spot.

The addition of Lalas was one of several moves announced or expected to be announced by the Rapids Wednesday, along with the addition of forward Jonathan Lewis, who was acquired via trade with NYCFC.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jonathan to Colorado,” said Smith. “He is one of the best young attacking talents in the United States, a dynamic game changer with the potential to develop into an elite level attacker in MLS. His age, character and skillset fit perfectly with the type of player we want to bring to Colorado and with the plans we have for the future of our club.”

Colorado also traded veteran midfielder Benny Feilhaber in exchange for defender Abdul Rwatubyaye, a draft pick, an international roster spot and some form of allocation money, according to ESPN’s Jeff Carlisle. Rwatubyaye only holds a P-1 Visa, and therefore will take up that international roster spot per MLS roster rules. 

Rwatubyaye has represented Rwanda at the U-17, U-20, U-23 and senior national team levels. The 22-year-old has made two appearances for SKC this season (one start), but played six years professionally in his home nation of Rwanda, winning three league titles in the country’s top flight.

With new players in tow, Colorado will look for their first win of the season at home this weekend as they host Rocky Mountain Cup rival Real Salt lake at 9 p.m. ET Saturday.

The post Colorado Rapids trade Benny Feilhaber, add reinforcements appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

While Los Angeles Football Club maintains its spot in the penthouse of the Pro Soccer USA Major League Soccer power rankings, there was a lot of movement after Week 10, both upward and downward.

The Houston Dynamo climbed to a season-high No. 2 after an emotional Texas Derby win over FC Dallas, which fell three spots to No. 7. The Philadelphia Union continued to trend upward following a stunning 6-1 thrashing of a New England Revolution side that fell five spots to No. 23.

New York City FC entered the top 10 at No. 9, a leap of four spots, following an impressive 2-0 road win over the Montreal Impact.

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

Pro Soccer USA writers Dylan Butler, Robert Jonas and Joe Tansey contributed to this report.

The post MLS Power Rankings Week 10: Houston Dynamo, NYCFC climb appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

For the first time since Week 3, the top spot in the Pro Soccer USA Major League Soccer Player Rankings has changed hands. 

Los Angeles FC’s Carlos Vela made the position his own for the last seven weeks, but after he failed to find the back of the net in Week 10, he gave way to another superstar who plies his trade in Los Angeles. 

LA Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic has been lurking beneath Vela in the top five for the last three weeks and he finally forced his way past the Mexican star. 

The same five players who landed in the top five a week ago remain there, but there are plenty of new entrants who could make a surge into the top quadrant of the list with one more impressive performance. 

Our MLS Player Rankings take into account a player’s form over the last four games, with the most recent game carrying the most importance. 

20. Nicolas Lodeiro, M, Seattle Sounders

Previous Ranking: 15 

Apr 24, 2019; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Sounders FC midfielder Nicolas Lodeiro (10) dribbles against the San Jose Earthquakes during the second half at CenturyLink Field. (Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports)

Nicolas Lodeiro was the most active player on the field for the Seattle Sounders in a 1-1 draw with Minnesota United FC on Saturday night at Allianz Field.

Although he made 104 touches and handed out four key passes, Lodeiro was unable to put a shot on target. 

In fact, the only shot on goal managed by the Sounders came on Cristian Roldan’s brilliant strike that found the bottom right corner of the net. 

19. Evan Bush, GK, Montreal Impact

Previous Ranking: 12 

May 4, 2019; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Impact goalkeeper Evan Bush (1) looks on during the first half of the game against the New York City FC at Stade Saputo. (Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports)

After stringing together a pair of clean sheets in Week 9, Evan Bush’s shutout streak ended at home in a 2-0 loss against New York City FC on Saturday. 

Bush gave up a pair of tallies to Dome Torrent’s side and he only stopped three of the shots sent in his direction at Stade Saputo.

Bush has conceded multiple goals in four of the games in which he has been beaten by opposing strikers in 2019.

18. Jesse Gonzalez, GK, FC Dallas

Previous Ranking: 9

Apr 27, 2019; Frisco, TX, USA; FC Dallas goalkeeper Jesse Gonzalez (1) in action during the match against the San Jose Earthquakes at Toyota Stadium. (Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports)

Jesse Gonzalez let in more than one goal in a game for the first time since March 30 in Saturday’s 2-1 Texas Derby defeat to the Houston Dynamo.

The FC Dallas goalkeeper only made two saves in the loss that put the Dynamo one step closer to winning back El Capitan. 

Since recording 12 saves in two games against Portland and Atlanta United, Gonzalez has only made four saves in the last two weeks. 

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

Previous Ranking: 10 

Courtesy of LAFC

Mark-Anthony Kaye was once again active on the ball for LAFC on Saturday, but he didn’t make a significant impact on the final score like previous weeks. 

The Canadian midfielder completed 85.2 percent of his 88 passes and made 98 touches in a LAFC midfield that relentlessly tried to break down the Chicago Fire defense in a 0-0 draw.

Through 10 games, Kaye has a pass-completion percentage of 83.3 on an average of 55.8 passes. 

16. Shea Salinas, D, San Jose Earthquakes

Previous Ranking: 13

Apr 24, 2019; Seattle, WA, USA; San Jose Earthquakes midfielder Shea Salinas (6) dribbles against the Seattle Sounders FC during the first half at CenturyLink Field. (Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports)

Shea Salinas got caught in a logjam of players surging into the rankings, which is why he fell three spots despite helping the San Jose Earthquakes earn a clean sheet in a 1-0 win over FC Cincinnati on Saturday. 

The veteran fullback, who stole the headlines for his scoring prowess in recent weeks, was part of a defensive unit that conceded three shots to the expansion side while playing with a man down for most of the second half. 

Salinas didn’t show up much in the stat line, but played his part to extend the Quakes unbeaten run to four games. 

15. Romain Metanire, D, Minnesota United

Previous Ranking: 20 

Apr 24, 2019; Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota United defender Romain Metanire (19) protects the ball from LA Galaxy defender Emmanuel Boateng (24) during the second half at Allianz Field. (Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports)

Romain Metanire is arguably the best in-form fullback in MLS. 

As we mentioned above, the Sounders only placed one shot on target in the 1-1 draw between them and Minnesota United on Saturday.

Metanire’s ability to contain the Seattle wingers stifled the amount of significant chances the visitors could put on goal. Jan Gregus and Ike Opara were two of the other defensive-minded Loons who deserve credit for Saturday’s performance. 

14. Sam Johnson, F, Real Salt Lake

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Real Salt Lake hasn’t been able to strike a rich vein of form from a team perspective, but one of its top offseason acquisitions is in the middle of an impressive stretch.

Forward Sam Johnson scored for the third time in four games in Saturday’s 2-1 defeat to the Portland Timbers. 

3rd goal of the season pic.twitter.com/ruF7pRuxRw

— Real Salt Lake (@realsaltlake) May 7, 2019

Johnson is responsible for three of the seven goals the Claret-and-Cobalt have recorded over the last four matches. 

13. Ezequiel Barco, M, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

After a one-week absence, Atlanta United’s young phenom is back in the top 20. 

Ezequiel Barco scored one of the best goals of Week 10 in his side’s 3-0 win over Sporting Kansas City and he produced his first assist of the season. 

WHAT A GOAL BY BARCO

He scores his 4th goal of the season and puts Atlanta up by 2 on the road. pic.twitter.com/ymHWCNYMaD

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) May 6, 2019

Since the start of April, Barco has three goals on seven shots on goal. His form is promising, but the Five Stripes will be without Barco while he represents Argentina at the U20 World Cup. 

12. Mauro Manotas, F, Houston Dynamo

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

Mauro Manotas bagged his first brace of the season in Houston’s rivalry win over FC Dallas. 

The Colombian forward opened the scoring from the spot and clinched the victory with a strike off a brilliant counter attack. 

End End #ForeverOrange | #HOUvDAL https://t.co/O4etJrVXvt

— Houston Dynamo (@HoustonDynamo) May 4, 2019

Manotas has three goals in the last two games and is now up to five goals and four assists for the season. 

11. Diego Valeri, M, Portland Timbers

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

May 4, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Diego Valeri (8) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Real Salt Lake during the second half at Rio Tinto Stadium. (Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports)

Diego Valeri and the Portland Timbers have quietly put together a three-game winning streak in the middle of their 12-game road trip to start the season. 

It’s no surprise the midfield maestro has been the offensive catalyst during the winning run with one goal and three assists. 

In nine games, Valeri has picked up two goals and six assists. 

10. Josef Martinez, F, Atlanta United

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

The 2018 MLS Golden Boot winner found his scoring stride in Kansas City on Sunday. 

Josef Martinez doubled his season goal total with a pair of tallies in Atlanta’s statement win over Sporting Kansas City. 

There's no stopping that one @JosefMartinez17 bags a brace https://t.co/7PliZEaSLM

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

The scorer of four goals in 2019 totaled four key passes and three shots on target with his 45 touches. 

9.  Jack Elliott, D, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: 20 

During the Philadelphia Union’s five-game home winning streak, they have outscored opponents 16-2. 

Jack Elliott’s play in the back line has played a major role in keeping teams off the scoreboard at Talen Energy Stadium.

Jack Elliott gets into the box and puts @PhilaUnion ahead 1-0! #PHIvNE https://t.co/xQNEIxGqW2

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

In addition to putting in a pair of strong defensive performances in Week 10, Elliott scored the opening goal in Saturday’s win over New England. 

8. Kacper Przybylko, F, Philadelphia Union

Previous Ranking: Not Ranked

One of the hottest scorers in MLS is a player who came to Philadelphia as a free agent in September and started the season in the USL Championship.

Kacper Przybylko has scored in each of his three starts and he’s put nine shots on target during the three-game stretch. 

3⃣ starts. 3⃣ goals for Kacper! Talk about being on #PHIvNE 5-1 pic.twitter.com/NSXt3oyTI8

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) May 5, 2019

Przybylko’s goals have come against Vancouver, FC Cincinnati and New England, and now he faces his toughest foe yet on Saturday in Toronto FC. 

7. Kei Kamara, F, Colorado Rapids

Previous Ranking: 11 

Kei Kamara moved his goal total up to seven with a pair of penalties in Colorado’s 3-2 defeat to Vancouver. 

Kamara has now scored in five of the last six games for the Rapids, who are mired in last place in the Western Conference.

Number 6 of the year for @keikamara #Rapids96 | #COLvVAN pic.twitter.com/UTIwGZcq6Z

— Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) May 4, 2019

Unfortunately, Kamara’s form is one of the only positive things the club can hang its hat on.

6. 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 was on the ball more than double the time any Chicago Fire player touched it on Saturday night. 

Atuesta made 152 touches in the middle of the park for LAFC and completed 91.3 percent of his 127 passes. 

The 21-year-old finished the game with two key passes and a shot on target, but it wasn’t enough to get Bob Bradley’s side a goal at Banc of California Stadium. 

5. Alejandro Pozuelo, M, Toronto FC 

Previous Ranking: 4

May 4, 2019; Orlando, FL, USA; Toronto FC midfielder Alejandro Pozuelo (10) dribbles the ball as Orlando City SC forward Tesho Akindele (13) defends during the second half at Orlando City Stadium. (Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports)

Alejandro Pozuelo picked up his sixth assist in six games on the second goal scored by Toronto FC in a 2-0 win at Orlando City Stadium on Saturday. 

Pozuelo and TFC face one of the most difficult weeks of the season in Week 11 with a road trip to Atlanta United on Wednesday and a home clash with surging Philadelphia on Saturday.

Two strong performances from the Spaniard and a pair of victories would establish TFC as one of the teams to beat in the Eastern Conference.

4. Alberth Elis, F, Houston Dynamo

Previous Ranking: 5

May 4, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Dynamo forward Alberth Elis (17) dribbles against FC Dallas defender Reggie Cannon (2) in the second half at BBVA Compass Stadium. (Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports)

With his assist in Houston’s win over FC Dallas, Alberth Elis extended his streak of contributing to a goal to six games. 

Elis has produced an assist in his last two games, and before that, he put together a four-game scoring streak. 

In his last six games, the Honduran forward has four goals and five assists. 

3. 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’s four-game scoring streak came to an end at the hands of Toronto FC on Saturday.

Although he didn’t find the back of the net, the Portuguese winger made plenty of contributions to the Orlando City attack. 

Nani recorded eight key passes and three shots against a TFC defense that limited the Lions to two shots on target. 

2. Carlos Vela, F, Los Angeles FC 

Previous Ranking: 1

May 4, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; LAFC forward Carlos Vela (10) and Chicago Fire midfielder Brandt Bronico (13) battle for the ball in the second half at Banc of California Stadium. The team played to a 0-0 tie. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)

Carlos Vela did everything in his power to put LAFC on the scoreboard on Saturday, but his effort came up short. 

The Mexican forward dished out five key passes and attempted three shots, with one of them reaching the target. 

The 0-0 draw with Chicago marked the second time LAFC was held scoreless in 2019 and the fourth time in 11 games in which Vela failed to score.

1. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, F, LA Galaxy

Previous Ranking: 2

A goal and an assist in the LA Galaxy’s 3-2 loss to the New York Red Bulls were enough to push Zlatan Ibrahimovic over Vela for the top spot. 

The assist on Uriel Antuna’s 39th-minute goal was the second of the season for Ibrahimovic, who celebrated like he was the one who scored the goal. 

The first of two very, very beautiful goals from the #LAGalaxy@diegopolenta92 @Ibra_official @AntunaUriel pic.twitter.com/nYUrH7OZNP

— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) May 4, 2019

Ibrahimovic scored his ninth goal of the season four minutes later, but the Galaxy were unable to hold on to the advantage in the second half. 

Ibrahimovic has two chances to reach double digits in the scoring column in Week 11, with a visit to Columbus on Wednesday and hosting New York City FC at Dignity Health Sports Park on Saturday.

The post MLS Player Rankings Week 10: Ibrahimovic takes top spot from Vela appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

This has been a landmark year in young domestic players getting meaningful minutes in Major League Soccer. FC Dallas is playing like it’s one of the best teams in the West and is likely to start three American teenagers.

Real Salt Lake, New York Red Bulls and the Philadelphia Union have set the stage in showing how academy talent can be cornerstone pieces on very good teams. Tyler Adams and Alphonso Davies showed the pathway for academy products to get to Europe, and how clubs can profit.

This has led to almost all MLS clubs taking their academies seriously. It’s a possible source of talent and assets,  and in a league where a salary cap looms, it is a possible competitive advantage. This also means evaluating and projecting homegrown prospects is becoming more and more important. 

Investing too long on a prospect who’s never going to make it means wasting time, resources and a roster spot. Let a prospect go, and you’ve potentially lost out on a few years of All-Star production at pennies on the dollar and a hefty transfer fee.  This is the dilemma that weighs on each MLS general manager.

A year ago I traded emails with Adam Belz from the Scuffed podcast — a top source for fans looking for coverage on young American starlets — about the top 10 MLS prospects in 2018 (full article here).  I went back to the expert to figure out what changed and what the new list looks like for 2019.  

(Note: The following email back and forth was edited for readability).

Tutul Rahman:  Thanks again for jumping into Year 2 grading the MLS trade rankings for Homegrown prospects. Your list last year got a lot of plaudits, and the 2019 season has arguably the best-ever MLS Homegrown players, starting with the Luchi [Gonzalez] revolution at FC Dallas.

This leads me to my first question. What are your reflections on the top-10 prospects list from last year? Were there any obvious misses or things that have changed in the valuations over the past year?

For memories sake, here’s where we netted out last year. Also, as a reminder, in order to make this list, the player had to sign with an MLS club or its USL side and have less than 400 MLS minutes as of April of that year.

Top MLS Homegrown Prospects of 2018

Tier 1 (Would trade an MLS MVP candidate to get this player) — None

Tier 2 (Would trade an MLS All-Star to get this player) — None

Tier 3 (Would trade very good, young player not quite All-Star level yet, i.e. Jordan Morris)

1. Efrain Alvarez

2. Andrew Carleton

Tier 4 (Would trade a good starting-caliber player, i.e. Michael Barrios)

3. George Bello

4. Jaylin Lindsey

Tier 5 (Would trade MLS journeyman and allocation money to get this player)

5. Wan Kuzain

6. Chris Goslin

7. Ben Mines

8. Matt Real

9. Paxton Pomykal

10. Gianluca Busio

Adam Belz:  My oh my, how quickly things change. Here’s my first blush adjustment. I’ve added a few names here and added another tier.

Tier 1 — No Homegrown is at this level yet

Tier 2 (would trade an All-Star)

1. Paxton Pomykal – It’s still early, but he’s already the key player for a winning FC Dallas side and already a valuable transfer target. If he continues to progress and has a good showing at the U-20 World Cup, I don’t think a $5 million transfer is out of the question. He’s certainly as valuable to his team as [Darlington] Nagbe is to his.

Tier 3 (would trade a good, young player with potential)

2. Efrain Alvarez — Easily the most talented teenager in MLS. If he can get match fit and regularly get on the field for the LA Galaxy, he could be something special. Only 16, so he has plenty of time.

Tier 4 (would trade a good starter)

3. James Sands — A solid starting CDM for NYCFC through four matches. An asset defensively and not a liability in possession at the age of 18. Seems to have the right mentality.

4. Brenden Aaronson — A competent teenage midfielder for a solid Philadelphia side. Not flashy, but already shown he’s elegant and reliable in possession.

5. George Bello — The potential is there for the young Atlanta left back. Hasn’t been able to stay consistently healthy.

6. Gianluca Busio — He’s a steady bench performer for SKC, one of the league’s best teams, at the age of 16.

7. Daniel Leyva — He hasn’t had his MLS debut yet, but he’s the cream of the academy crop in Seattle, he can run the midfield and he’s only 15. Certainly one of the top-5 prospects in America who hasn’t played first-team minutes yet. Trajectory and potential are good enough to get an MLS starter in exchange

8. Ricardo Pepi — He’s on a USL contract for North Texas, the FC Dallas reserve squad, scored a hat trick in his USL League One debut and has all the tools of a top-end No. 9. Great passer, strong on the ball, nose for goal, great workrate. Trajectory and potential are good enough to get an MLS starter in exchange.

Tier 5 (would trade a journeyman or allocation money)

9. Jaylin Lindsey — He’s a versatile, solid defender. Not likely to be a starting-caliber player soon.

10.  Andrew Carleton — He’s had problems off the field and he’s been underwhelming on the field for long enough that his trade value has to be considered on the wane. Could turn it around, but he needs a positive year for Atlanta and I can’t see many GMs taking a flyer on him for anything more than an MLS journeyman.

Dropping out:

AB:  I think Araujo is a top-level prospect. Servania and Scally may be, but I’m not sure, and Fuentes has potential but a long way to go. I’m not bullish on the others (though I have to admit I haven’t seen Jack de Vries play). I don’t think any of these players rises above Tier 5 at this point, except maybe Araujo and Akinola.

Final 2019 MLS Top 10 Prospects

(less than 400 MLS minutes as of Apr 1, 2019)

TR:  Nice!  You can already see many of these players have been integral parts of their squads and will be ineligible for next year’s list, such as Pomykal, Araujo, Aaronson and Busio.

Last question for you: There’s been quite a few big-name academy prospects who have skipped signing with MLS clubs and go straight to U-19 sides in Europe. This includes Alex Mendez, Uly Llanez, Sebastian Soto, Richie Ledezma, Chris Gloster and Taylor Booth. 

That’s quite the list of talent MLS helped develop but didn’t really get to reap the benefits for. I’m curious, which of those prospects would’ve made this list if they signed with MLS instead and at which tier?  It would give a good sense of the level of assets those teams lost for free.

AB:  I’d put Richie Ledezma in Tier 2. I realize the reader will have to take that on faith since he’s not played a single first-team minute, but I do think he’s polished and explosive enough to have an immediate impact in an MLS midfield.

I’d have Alex Mendez in Tier 3, with Soto and Gloster in Tier 4. Booth, I’m a little less familiar with, but he’d probably go in Tier 4 too.

TR:  It’s easy to have 20/20 vision when watching or covering sports. FC Dallas losing Weston McKennie for free easily looks like a large miss now. But it’s much more difficult to get into a GMs shoes and try to project out. 

FC Dallas’s patience and faith in Pomykal played out to the point where he’s probably the top prospect in MLS today. He’s a Tier 2 prospect, which makes him worth around $750,000 to $1 million in allocation money on the MLS trade market. This is a true competitive advantage in a salary-capped league like MLS.

With all of the upside, there are plenty of risk.  Andrew Carleton went from a top-2 prospect to not even being in the top-10 in a year. Will Atlanta be able to get the potential value out of Carleton?  Or will it never fully materialize?

All we know now is that valuations of prospects change almost weekly, and tracking the progress of homegrown talent is one of the most exciting parts of the league.

The post Top 10 MLS Homegrown Prospects 2019 Edition appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference became much more intriguing in Week 10. 

After struggling for two months, Atlanta United and the New York Red Bulls reminded everyone they are capable of knocking off some of the best teams in the league. 

The Five Stripes took care of business with a 3-0 road win over Sporting Kansas City, while the Red Bulls won a back-and-forth affair with the LA Galaxy. 

Neither team is in the top seven of the East quite yet, but they are prepared to barge through the red line in Week 11. 

Both the Red Bulls and Atlanta are one point back of seventh-place Orlando City, and both sides have at least one game in hand on a majority of the teams at the top of the East because of the lenient scheduling during the Concacaf Champions League.

The scary part is neither team is close to the finished product, but we did see glimpses of hope in Week 10 that both squads can put together an extended winning run. 

May 4, 2019; Harrison, NJ, USA; New York Red Bulls midfielder Marc Rzatkowski (90) celebrates his goal against the LA Galaxy with New York Red Bulls midfielder Sean Davis (27) during the second half at Red Bull Arena. (Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports)

One of the reasons Atlanta should storm up the standings is the emergence of Ezequiel Barco as the playmaker the team thought it would get a year ago. 

Barco should have at least two more games left with the Five Stripes before leaving to play for Argentina at the U-20 World Cup. By the time Barco leaves, the other attackers in the squad, such as defending Golden Boot winner Josef Martinez, should be rounding into form thanks to the ability of the Argentinian to get everyone involved in the final third. 

The Red Bulls reversed their poor form Saturday in the opposite manner without one of their superstars taking over the game. Kaku served the last game of his suspension Saturday and Bradley Wright-Phillips hasn’t found the back of the net since March 16. 

On Saturday, Amro Tarek, Marc Rzatkowski and Derrick Etienne were the scorers, and given the organic way the Red Bulls have tried to play with academy products and players who buy into the system, the unsung heroes on that roster will play huge roles in kick starting a winning streak. 

While the Red Bulls and Atlanta could make a surge into fifth or sixth place, it might be hard for them to hit the top spot in the East before the break for the Concacaf Gold Cup.

The Philadelphia Union made a statement of their own Saturday by plowing through the New England Revolution. Jim Curtin’s side leads D.C. United on goal differential at the top of the East and gets a huge test in Week 11 against Toronto FC, who is plugging along just fine in fourth place. 

Then there’s the Montreal Impact, who always seem to fly under the radar, sitting in third place without Ignacio Piatti playing a significant role so far. 

The East was already lining up to be a competitive race for the entire regular season, and with the addition of Atlanta and the Red Bulls to the fray, the competition will only get better. 

Goals of the Week 

Cristian Roldan, Seattle Sounders

WHAT A HIT! CRISTIAN ROLDAN WITH A ! #MINvSEA https://t.co/5UNwi23GsW

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) May 5, 2019

Jonathan Osorio, Toronto FC 

GO ON, @OsoJ92!

Pure class. #ORLvTOR https://t.co/qmd1AHLhQJ

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

Ezequiel Barco, Atlanta United 

pic.twitter.com/Of9s0YD5UO

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

VAR Controversy

To say the Video Assistant Referee system is still a work in progress in MLS is an understatement. 

Each week debates arise over whether a referee got a crucial call right and how to improve the process. 

The review that triggered the most frustration in Week 10 came from Columbus’ loss to D.C., where a goal was called back for an apparent foul at midfield by Wil Trapp. 

Thoroughly confused why this #Crew96 goal was called back…@PROreferees ?! #MLS pic.twitter.com/1IbOHnvUB9

— Taylor Twellman (@TaylorTwellman) May 5, 2019

Crew head coach Caleb Porter rightfully went off on the review that took away his team’s goal.

So here we are once again. Another week with a questionable VAR call and no hope that a significant fix will come. 

It seems the referees need a better understanding of what a clear and obvious error is for a play to be reviewed. VAR has gotten some calls right in 2019, but until it becomes a near-perfect process, the shortcomings will always shine brighter than the right decisions. 

New Coach, Same Result

The Colorado Rapids are the worst team in MLS by a long mile. 

In their first game under interim head coach Conor Casey, the Rapids fell to the Vancouver Whitecaps in an ugly game of soccer Friday night. 

It didn’t help the Rapids that Diego Rubio lost his cool and was sent off for a dumb swing to the face late in the second half when a point was still on the table. 

The Colorado Rapids everyone! pic.twitter.com/amgpKzKJQO

— Seth Vertelney (@svertelney) May 4, 2019

Ohio Teams Continue To Struggle

After losses Saturday, the Crew and FC Cincinnati are now 0-10 with two goals since April 13. 

At least the Crew got on the scoreboard in Week 10 against D.C. United, while FC Cincinnati’s struggles run much deeper with no goals since April 7. 

Neither team has been spectacular on the defensive end either. The Crew and FC Cincinnati have been outscored by a combined 19-2 during their current five-game winning streaks. 

Things don’t get any easier for the Crew in Week 11, with LA Galaxy and Los Angeles FC coming to Mapfre Stadium, while FC Cincinnati hosts third-place Montreal. 

The situation in Cincinnati might be worse with frustrations about an on-field identity starting to bubble to the surface. 

Fanendo Adi transcript presented without comment: pic.twitter.com/9LjYSwioui

— Pat Brennan (@PBrennanENQ) May 5, 2019

LAFC Held Scoreless

May 4, 2019; Los Angeles, CA, USA; LAFC forward Carlos Vela (10) and Chicago Fire midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger (31) battle for the ball in the second half at Banc of California Stadium. The team played to a 0-0 tie. (Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports)

LAFC suffered an unusual result Saturday against the Chicago Fire. 

The goalless draw at Banc of California Stadium marked the first time the Black-and-Gold failed to score at home in 2019. 

What was even more unusual about the result was the Fire was the team to hold LAFC scoreless for the second time this season. 

Going into the weekend, the Fire had given up 13 goals in nine games. 

Portland Starting To Hit Stride

May 4, 2019; Sandy, UT, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Diego Valeri (8) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Real Salt Lake during the second half at Rio Tinto Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Chris Nicoll-USA TODAY Sports

The Portland Timbers have started to create momentum ahead of the re-opening of Providence Park on June 1. 

After stumbling out of the gate, the Timbers have put together a three-game winning streak with victories over Columbus, Toronto FC and Real Salt Lake. 

The winning run has pushed the Timbers one point back of seventh place in the Western Conference, and we fully expect them to land in the top seven once they get a run of home games under their belts. 

Looking Ahead

You don’t have to wait long for a slew of MLS games to appear on your television and computer screens. 

Seven Eastern Conference teams are in action during Wednesday’s four-game slate. 

The clashes between Atlanta and Toronto FC and the Red Bulls and Montreal could alter the complexion of the East standings further going into Saturday. 

The post MLS Week 10 Review: Atlanta United and New York Red Bulls are back, VAR controversy and more appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The Colorado Rapids are still winless following their latest loss, a 3-2 defeat at the hands of the Vancouver Whitecaps. Freddy Montero propelled the visiting ‘Caps to a 2-0 lead early in the first half with a goal and an assist to Lass Bangoura before back-to-back PKs taken by Kei Kamara leveled the score at 2-2. Late in the match, substitute Andy Rose earned the game winner with his 87th minute goal putting the score at 3-2 and earning all three points for Vancouver.

Here are three takeaways from the Colorado Rapids’ 3-2 loss to the Whitecaps.

Different coach, same problems

Conor Casey made his coaching debut on Friday following the midweek firing of Rapids head coach Anthony Hudson.

The move was one the front office and Rapids executive VP and GM Padraig Smith had hoped to inject life into the squad.

To some extent, there was fire in the group, rallying back to tie the game despite going down 2-0 early. But Colorado’s penchant for leaking goals is still a problem, one that Casey himself recognized with reporters postgame.

“Unfortunately, the goals against are still catching us in transition. It’s a difficult balance, we want to be attractive, we want to play forward, especially at home, we don’t want to sit back and defend,” Casey said. “That’s not something that I believe in, at the same time it’s clear that we are giving up too many goals, no one’s happy about it and we are going to continue to work on it without trying to be too defensive. It’s a tough balance.”

Colorado’s three goals conceded on Friday night now puts their total at 27 allowed in 10 games, putting them on track for a historic 92 goals allowed (the Rapids’ franchise record for goals allowed in a season is 69).

Wavering morale

As stated previously, the fact that Colorado was able to fight back in the match shows that there’s still some morale left in the group, but it was readily apparent that without a win through 10 matches, frustrating is brewing and confidence is waning in the Rapids’ locker room.

Compounding things this week was the firing of Hudson. Despite his poor track record of results, he was still highly respected by many players. Even if certain players may or may not have been on board, no player wants to be seen as a “coach killer”, either.

Kamara explained the circumstances of the team’s latest lost postgame.

“We were positive tonight, and that’s something we wanted heading into tonight’s game,” he said. “Obviously it’s been a tough week, though. Most of us in the locker room were brought in by [Anthony] Hudson, and for him not being a part of the team anymore, and to move on, is just a part of being a professional. [The team] talked about it and knew what we wanted to do, and decided that we just need to be positive going into the game tonight. That being said, everybody was positive. Everybody felt like today was going to be the day, but once again, we got unlucky and the performance just wasn’t good enough.”

On to the next one

Once again, the Rapids are still mathematically alive with nearly a third of the season gone, but are for all practical purposes out of the playoff hunt, needing magic number of 87 (combined points gained by Colorado and dropped by other teams) to make this year’s postseason.

For now, the team’s most urgent task and chance at silverware would be to make strides in the Rocky Mountain Cup, with the first opportunity coming next Saturday at home against Real Salt Lake.

It’s one that the Rapids’ interim manager will be taking seriously.

“First of all, we are excited to have a full house, that’s our biggest game of the year,” said Casey. That’s our top rival and everyone is going to be up for it. Right now it’s just about them recovering mentally and physically and then slowly building into the week and getting ready for our biggest game.”

The post Déjà Blues: Colorado showing same issues again in 3-2 loss to Vancouver. appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – In Conor Casey’s debut as interim manager of the Colorado Rapids, the club hosted the Vancouver Whitecaps, still seeking their first win of 2019.

But instead of a victory, Colorado (0-8-2, 2 points) fell once again, losing 3-2 Friday after substitute Andy Rose found a late goal for the Whitecaps (2-5-3, 9 points) while the Rapids played with 10 men. The loss marks the seventh in a row for Colorado.

First-half magic from Whitecaps striker Fredy Montero propelled Vancouver to an early 2-0 lead with a goal and an assist, but Colorado answered with two well-taken penalties from Kei Kamara to level the match.

Montero’s strike came in the 16th minute, the forward springing free onto a deft through ball from Lass Bangoura and sending a low finish past goalkeeper Tim Howard to put the visitors up 1-0.

Vancouver doubled its lead minutes later when Montero sent a cross from near the endline inside the Rapids’ 6-yard box to Lucas Venuto, who put his shot into the roof of Colorado’s net in the 26th minute.

Colorado pulled a goal back in the 38th minute after a penalty was awarded for Whitecaps midfielder Hwang In-beom’s takedown of Kellyn Acosta in the box. Kei Kamara buried the PK to make the score 2-1 just before the half.

Possession was nearly even between the two sides at the half and Colorado had outshot the visitors 7-4, but the Whitecaps’ two shots on target to the Rapids’ one marked the difference.

Colorado came out and put Vancouver under pressure in the second half, earning a second penalty in the 53rd minute after video review showed contact by Whitecaps substitute Brett Levis against Rapids defender Axel Sjoberg in the 6-yard box.

Kamara buried the second PK opportunity to level the match.

Acosta nearly gave Colorado its first lead of the match, dribbling down the right side of Vancouver’s defense and putting a shot into the path of Whitecaps’ keeper Maxime Crepeau.

Colorado’s hope for a win was hampered in the 77th minute. Rapids’ midfielder Diego Rubio was sent off with a red card for violent conduct, leaving them with 10 men for the remainder of the match.

Five minutes later, the visitors appeared to go in front on a goal from Bangoura, but it was called off due to Rose being offside.

But in the 87th minute, Rose redeemed himself, beating Sjoberg and sneaking a shot past Howard to give Vancouver a 3-2 lead and the eventual win.

Colorado will continue to seek its first win next Saturday at home against Rocky Mountain Cup rival Real Salt Lake, while Vancouver returns home for a derby match of its own, facing Cascadia rivals Portland on Friday.

The post After firing coach, Colorado Rapids beat 3-2 by Vancouver Whitecaps for 7th-straight loss appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

The Week 10 Major League Soccer slate has a bit of everything to interest fans. 

The weekend begins Friday night with the start of a new era for the Colorado Rapids, and escalates Saturday with a high-profile clash between teams in major markets.

The 10-game Saturday slate carries some intriguing matchups at night, including the reunion between Osvaldo Alonso and the Seattle Sounders at Minnesota United’s new stadium, Allianz Field. 

After that, there’s a Sunday-night showdown between Sporting Kansas City and Atlanta United at Children’s Mercy Park. 

Here’s a quick look at some of the major storylines to follow throughout your weekend MLS viewing experience. Topics are listed in chronological order to help you keep track of what to watch over the course of three days.

1. First look at Colorado without Hudson

Apr 27, 2019; Atlanta, GA, USA; Colorado Rapids goalkeeper Tim Howard (1) shows emotion against Atlanta United in the second half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. (Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports)

The Colorado Rapids became the first team to fire its coach this season by letting go of Anthony Hudson earlier in the week.

The Rapids are the worst team in MLS right now and are the only side in the league without a win. It gets even worse when you look at the club’s -12 goal differential through nine games. The second-worst goal differential is New England’s -9.

Former MLS forward Conor Casey, who was the 2010 MLS Cup Most Valuable Player for the Rapids before rejoining the club as an assistant coach, is in charge for now as interim coach.

The Rapids have some decent parts on their roster with MLS experience, but they haven’t been able to put together a cohesive stretch on the field yet. 

Colorado could either experience a surge under the direction of Casey, or continue on its struggling path. Either way, it will be interesting to see how the team responds to Hudson’s firing at home on Friday.

2. Zlatan takes New York 

Apr 13, 2019; Carson, CA, USA; Los Angeles Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (9) celebrates after scoring on a penalty kick past Philadelphia Union goalkeeper Matt Freese (1) in the first half of the game at StubHub Center. (Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports)

The latest nationally-televised showcase for Zlatan Ibrahimovic comes Saturday afternoon at Red Bull Arena. 

The new-and-improved Galaxy take on the New York Red Bulls in a clash of two of the most well-known clubs in the league, but right now, the Galaxy have everything going right.

The road team has won two straight games in the Red Bulls-Galaxy series and there is a good chance the Galaxy walk away with three points against Chris Armas’ side, who is looking to put together a string of consistent results.

3. Texas Derby

Mar 16, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Dynamo forward Alberth Elis (17) celebrates with forward Mauro Manotas (9) and midfielder Memo Rodriguez (8) after scoring a goal during the first half against the Vancouver Whitecaps at BBVA Compass Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

FC Dallas takes a lengthy unbeaten run in the Texas Derby into Saturday’s clash with the Houston Dynamo. 

The first Texas Derby of 2019 at BBVA Compass Stadium features some of the most exciting attackers in the league on the Houston roster and a collection of young stars on the FC Dallas squad list. 

Alberth Elis is one of the most menacing wingers in the league, and he has been gearing up for Honduras’ Concacaf Gold Cup campaign by lighting up opposing defenses. 

The attacking combination of Elis, Mauro Manotas and Tomas Martinez could pack enough firepower to force the FC Dallas back line into a few mistakes. 

Dallas coach Luchi Gonzalez’s defense, which is headlined by Matt Hedges and Reto Ziegler, hasn’t given up more than two goals in a single game this season.

Something might have to give, whether it be a dip in Houston’s attacking form or more goals conceded by FC Dallas, in order for one of the sides to win the first rivalry match of 2019. 

4. Ohio teams look to break out of scoring slump

Apr 27, 2019; Houston, TX, USA; Columbus Crew forward Gyasi Zardes (11) attempts to trap the ball as Houston Dynamo midfielder Darwin Ceren (24) defends during the second half at BBVA Compass Stadium. (Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports)

FC Cincinnati and the Columbus Crew are a combined 0-8 with one goal in their last eight MLS games. The Crew have been outscored 7-1 during their four-game losing streak, while expansion side FCC has been outscored 8-0, including a 2-0 loss Wednesday to Philadelphia. 

Neither team faces an easy task Saturday as they attempt to start May on the right foot. 

Columbus has to visit a D.C. United team that shut it out April 24, while FC Cincinnati faces the unenviable weekend trip to San Jose after playing two straight road games on the East coast. 

While FC Cincinnati was projected to struggle during its first season, Columbus was not expected to face this much of a lull in Caleb Porter’s first term.

If one of the two breaks out of their scoring slump, our odds are on the Crew because of Cincinnati’s tough travel, but anything can happen in MLS. 

5. Sporting KC Looks for 1st win in over a month

Apr 27, 2019; Kansas City, KS, USA; Sporting Kansas City forward Krisztian Nemeth (9) celebrates after scoring a goal during the second half of the MLS match against the New England Revolution at Childrens Mercy Park. (William Purnell-USA TODAY Sports)

In a way, Sporting Kansas City’s 4-4 draw with New England felt like a victory because Peter Vermes’ side came back from a 3-1 deficit to earn a point at home. 

Although it was two points lost at home, last week’s performance should have given the club an emotional boost after dealing with the fallout from its Concacaf Champions League exit. 

Knocking off an Atlanta United side that is finally starting to round into form won’t be an easy task for Sporting KC, but they are undefeated in league play at Children’s Mercy Park. 

If Krisztian Nemeth, Johnny Russell and Co. continue to create chances in the final third, Sporting KC should be able to get back on track against the Five Stripes and earn their first victory since March 30.

MLS Week 10 Schedule

Friday, May 3

Vancouver Whitecaps at Colorado Rapids (9 p.m. ET, TSN 1/3) 

Saturday, May 4

LA Galaxy at New York Red Bulls (2 p.m. ET, ESPN) 

FC Dallas at Houston Dynamo (4 p.m. ET, Univision) 

Toronto FC at Orlando City (4 p.m. ET, TSN4, ESPN+) 

New York City FC at Montreal Impact (5 p.m. ET, TVA Sport, ESPN+) 

New England Revolution at Philadelphia Union (7:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

Columbus Crew at D.C. United (8 p.m. ET, TSN2, ESPN+) 

Seattle Sounders at Minnesota United (8 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

Portland Timbers at Real Salt Lake (9 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

FC Cincinnati at San Jose Earthquakes (10 p.m. ET, ESPN+) 

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

Sunday, May 5

Atlanta United at Sporting Kansas City (9 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Player to Watch

Reto Ziegler, D, FC Dallas

Apr 27, 2019; Frisco, TX, USA; FC Dallas defender Reto Ziegler (3) in action during the match against the San Jose Earthquakes at Toyota Stadium. (Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports)

We touched on the FC Dallas defense a bit above, and we are intrigued by how the club’s experienced center back duo deal with Houston’s dynamic (pun not intended) attack. 

Reto Ziegler has provided a steady hand next to Matt Hedges and together they have limited opponents to nine goals.

 Containing a Houston attack that has produced 15 goals in seven games won’t be easy, but Ziegler and Hedges are more than capable of squeezing the Dynamo attack out of the middle of the penalty area. 

Matchup to Watch 

Osvaldo Alonso, M, Minnesota United vs. Nicolas Lodeiro, M, Seattle Sounders

Apr 28, 2019; Saint Paul, MN, Saint Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota United midfielder Osvaldo Alonso (6) dribbles the ball as D.C. United forward Wayne Rooney (9) defends in the first half during a match at Allianz Field. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-USA TODAY Sports

Former teammates Nicolas Lodeiro and Osvaldo Alonso will go head-to-head in an intriguing matchup that could go a long way in determining the final result at Allianz Field. 

Alonso knows the tendencies of the Sounders’ top playmaker and the same can be said about the Uruguayan being aware of Alonso’s defensive technique. 

The adjustments made to each other’s skill set will be interesting to watch in the clash of top six teams in the Western Conference. 

Fantasy Player to Watch

Cristian Espinoza, M, San Jose Earthquakes

Apr 27, 2019; Frisco, TX, USA; San Jose Earthquakes forward Cristian Espinoza (10) in action during the match against FC Dallas at Toyota Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

A victory is being served on a silver platter to the San Jose Earthquakes in Week 10. 

San Jose faces a FC Cincinnati side that played Saturday and Wednesday on the East coast before traveling to Northern California for a Saturday night game. 

Cristian Espinoza is one of the many San Jose attackers who should have their way in the final third against a tired and out-of-form FC Cincinnati back line. 

The post MLS Week 10 Preview: Red Bulls prepare for Zlatan, Rapids play 1st game after Hudson firing and more appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. – With a winless start to the season through nine matches, Rapids executive vice president and GM Padraig Smith decided take drastic measures.

With hope of turning the ship in the right direction, he relieved second-year head coach Anthony Hudson of his duties on Wednesday, just 17 months after hiring the former New Zealand manager.

“I think we should have more points on the board now and we’re certainly capable of winning games,” Smith told reporters on Wednesday. “We want to make sure that when we see a slide like this, when we see results going the way they are, you’ve got to take action.”

Hudson went just 8-26-9 in league play during his tenure in Colorado and also went winless in knockout competitions, with the Rapids bowing out early in the Concacaf Champions League and U.S. Open Cup play last season.

But Smith also shoulders some of the blame, having hired Hudson after a “worldwide coaching search” that lasted about four months. Hudson came into the job with little experience successfully managing club football, with the vast majority of his experience coming from managing the New Zealand men’s national team and Bahrain U-23 sides.

With reporters gathered around and cameras rolling, Smith took responsibility for the failed hire.

“I take a massive responsibility in that,” Smith said. “When I look at the overall plan, we’re constantly evaluating it and looking at where we can make changes and what we can improve on.”

During the media session, Smith explained that as a “process-driven individual” he’s willing to look at the mistakes made in the Rapids’ last coaching search and apply the lessons learned as the team undergoes a second head coaching search under his direction.

“There’s no timeline,” Smith said of the search for a new head coach. “We want to do this right and I have complete confidence in the coaching staff.”

He also remains steadfast the search will go well this time around.

“We undertook a very detailed process last time, so that’s laid a foundation,” Smith said. “We’ll take our time. We’ll do it right. We’ll bring the right guy in.”

Smith’s mistakes haven’t been limited to the failed hire of Hudson, however. Under his watch, Hudson was approved to bring in players who haven’t shown an ability to perform in MLS for a variety of reasons.

Additionally, the Irishman with a UEFA financial background has been lauded for his analytical approach and expected ability to build a roster smartly, but Colorado’s highest paid players have oft been the biggest under-performers.

But this past offseason, the Rapids had appeared to right the ship at least in terms of roster approach, bringing in several proven MLS veterans. Hudson’s inability to get results with an improved roster turned up the heat, and his now infamous postgame comments following a 1-0 loss to Atlanta, during which he called his side a “bottom group of players” facing a “massive gap in class,” sealed his fate.

Smith fired back a bit, defending the players while outlining Colorado’s plan for the future.

“I think fundamentally I’m actually very proud of the players we’ve got in that locker room,” Smith said. “What we’re driving for here is we’ve always talked about 2020. We’ve talked about the DP transition [getting Howard and Gashi off the books] and I think this year was meant to be a competitive year, it truly was. The plan was to be playoff competitive in 2019, transition the DPs in 2020 and be the best form of ourselves going into 2021. The results haven’t been there for us and that’s been unacceptable.”

That doesn’t mean there isn’t more room to improve the roster. Smith confirmed prior comments the Rapids are shopping before the MLS primary transfer window closes on May 7.

“We’re involved in discussions with a number of clubs now,” he said. “The window shuts on Tuesday, so, as always, we’re exploring every avenue that’s open to us to try and improve the roster.”

With Colorado’s failed coaching hire now gone, a spotlight has now shined on those who remain with the club to get things right.

“I think fundamentally we need to examine every aspect of what we do here,” Smith said. “I brought in coach Hudson and I take full responsibility for that. I look at the players we’ve brought in and if we’ve made a mistake there, I have to look at why and what we can learn from that. At the end of the day, not every player you’re going to bring in is going to work. That’s one of the fundamentals of sport, it’s unfortunate, but that’s the way it goes.”

But it’s not simply c’est la vie if things go wrong. Smith knows his team will be graded on wins and losses.

“Results are going to drive everything,” he said. “We want to be a perennial playoff team. We feel like we’ve got a bunch of players in that locker room to be playoff competitive this year, we genuinely do.”

The post After firing coach, Colorado Rapids GM Padraig Smith now under pressure appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

One of the great equalizers and problems in Major League Soccer comes to the forefront during Week 9’s weekend slate. 

Los Angeles FC’s second meeting with the Seattle Sounders in two weeks takes place at CenturyLink Field on Sunday. 

No matter the shape of the turf fields across MLS, it still makes a difference when it comes to actually playing games. 

Bob Bradley even admitted as such after the Black-and-Gold blitzed the Sounders 4-1 at Banc of California Stadium a week ago. 

The good news for the Sounders is that Chad Marshall is back in the lineup at center back. The 16-year MLS veteran was missed in Week 8, when the LAFC offense ran through the Sounders back line with ease. 

Defending Carlos Vela, Diego Rossi and Co. is still going to be a tough task, but the Sounders defense has the familiarity with the turf on their side, and the pace of play will be different with LAFC having a harder time working through the defensive lines through the ground. 

LAFC isn’t a one-dimensional side, but it will have to make adjustments on the fly in order to counter the difficulties of the turf.

But the Sounders proved on Wednesday they aren’t a perfect side yet. The defense gave up a pair of goals to the San Jose Earthquakes before coming back to earn a draw. 

After being the target of criticism for most of March, the Quakes have turned into one of the league’s best stories in April by beating Portland and Sporting Kansas City at home and earning a point in Seattle. 

Suddenly, the Quakes look like a competent side under first-year head coach Matias Almeyda, and dare we say, they are fun to watch. 

The Quakes are only three points out of the Western Conference playoff spots, but they face a difficult task on Saturday against a FC Dallas side that is improving in its own right under first-year boss Luchi Gonzalez. 

Shea Salinas has turned into an unlikely goal contributor with three goals in the last two games, and he’s already reached a career high in scoring with four tallies. 

THIS MAN IS ON FIRE!

Shea Salinas with his third goal of the season! #SEAvSJ | #VamosSJ pic.twitter.com/qyUSNS9d78

— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) April 25, 2019

Cristian Espinoza has also been a bright spot for the Quakes in the middle of the park, and Jackson Yueill looks the part of a MLS starter after he was finally given an opportunity to show his quality in an extended role under Almeyda. 

Compared to the other teams that were in need of massive improvements, the Quakes are in great shape. 

Colorado is still lingering at the bottom of the West, Vancouver hasn’t hit its stride yet, while New England and Chicago have been up-and-down in the Eastern Conference. 

Speaking of the Revolution, Brad Friedel has come under plenty of criticism for his team’s performance in 2019, and even though he deserves the No. 1 spot on the hot seat rankings, remember this is a franchise that gave Jay Heaps plenty of chances to turn things around before cutting ties in 2017. 

Week 9 Weekend Schedule

Saturday, April 27

Orlando City at New York City FC (1 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

Portland Timbers at Toronto FC (3 p.m, ET, TSN, ESPN+) 

San Jose Earthquakes at FC Dallas (3:30 p.m. ET, Univision) 

Philadelphia Union at Vancouver Whitecaps (5 p.m. ET, TSN, ESPN+)

Colorado Rapids at Atlanta United (6 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

FC Cincinnati at New York Red Bulls (7 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

Columbus Crew at Houston Dynamo (8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

New England Revolution at Sporting Kansas City (8:30 p.m. ET, ESPN+)

Sunday, April 28

Chicago Fire at Montreal Impact (12:30 p.m. ET, TVA Sport, ESPN+)

D.C. United at Minnesota United (1:30 p.m. ET, FS1) 

Los Angeles FC at Seattle Sounders (3:30 p.m. ET, ESPN)

Real Salt Lake at LA Galaxy (8 p.m. ET, ESPN)

Player to Watch 

Alejandro Pozuelo, Toronto FC

Apr 19, 2019; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto FC midfielder Alejandro Pozuelo (10) reacts after scoring his first goal against Minnesota United in the first half at BMO Field. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports

Alejandro Pozuelo has already established himself as the main attraction in the Toronto FC attack, but he’ll have even more pressure to create chances on Saturday without Jozy Altidore on the field. 

The Spaniard has four goals and five assists in four games, and the majority of those assists have come on goals scored by Altidore. 

If he continues to be a menace in the final third, the Reds won’t drop off much in production, even if they are calling on their depth to manage through Altidore’s injury absence. 

Matchup to Watch

Alberth Elis, Houston vs. Waylon Francis, Columbus

Apr 19, 2019; Carson, CA, USA; Houston Dynamo forward Alberth Elis (17) controls the ball ahead of Los Angeles Galaxy defender Jorgen Skjelvik (16) during the first half at StubHub Center. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Alberth Elis has torn apart a few defenses with his pacy runs down the right wing. 

The Honduran attacker is one of the most dangerous attackers in MLS when he gets rolling, and he’ll try to show that again on Saturday against the Columbus Crew’s Waylon Francis. 

Francis is one of the most experienced full backs in MLS and he is a part of a Crew back line that has conceded nine goals, which is tied for second-fewest in the league.

The Crew back line will be on short rest on Saturday at BBVA Compass Stadium, which leads us to believe Elis has an advantage in this matchup going into the match. 

Fantasy Option To Watch 

Heber, F, New York City FC

Apr 6, 2019; New York, NY, USA; New York City FC forward Heber (9) fights for position against Montreal Impact defender Jukka Raitala (22) during the second half at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Heber has made an instant impact on the New York City FC attack in his four games with the club.

The 27-year-old forward has a goal and two assists in his two starts, including an assist on Wednesday against Chicago.

Short rest might be a factor in Heber’s performance on Saturday against Orlando City, but if you had him in your lineup at the start of the match week, you should be able to reap more benefits out of him.

The post MLS Week 9 Weekend Preview: LAFC, Sounders rematch, Quakes trying to stay hot and more appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.

ATLANTA — Julian Gressel scored from close range in the second half to seal an Atlanta United win over the Colorado Rapids 1-0 Saturday at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. It was Atlanta’s first home win of the 2019 Major League Soccer season.

Atlanta (2-3-2, 8 points) struggled in attack for much of the game. The team went into halftime with just one shot on goal, a 35-yard effort from centerback Leandro González-Pírez. Players were visibly frustrated with Gressel and forward Gonzalo “Pity” Martínez exchanging heated words before walking off the field.

After the game, manager Frank de Boer was surprised to be asked if the offensive performance was concerning. De Boer blamed the lack of attacking fireworks on Colorado’s defensive strategy. He accused the Rapids of parking not one, but two busses.

“You always need two teams to try to play football,” de Boer said in his postgame press conference. “And we had only one team trying to win the game. So, that’s hard. In international football, and also here, when teams play like this, you know, you have to have a fantastic day. Even the big teams in Europe have problems with this  kind of system if they park two busses in front of their own goal.

“The second half was much better, but it’s very difficult to play against this type of system. … If you score an early goal, they have to come out and then it’s an open game. But now, they still have the belief, they’re coming for the result, for one point, and maybe with a little bit of luck, three points. That’s why I think this victory tastes very sweet, because I think the team who deserved to win got the three points. Sometimes it’s not always the case.”

In the 75th minute, Colorado attempted to play the ball out of its defensive third. Nagbe stepped up to intercept a pass 35 yards from goal and dribbled through traffic into the penalty area. The chance was nearly lost due to a heavy touch, but Nagbe raced to the end line and fizzed a low pass across the face of goal. Gressel beat goalkeeper Tim Howard to the ball and scored from two yards.

Gressel’s goal came four minutes after Atlanta made a double substitution: Martínez vacated for Héctor “Tito” Villalba, and midfielder Eric Remedi subbed on for left fullback Brek Shea. Atlanta immediately looked more dangerous after the change. Nagbe moved into Shea’s position on left flank. He and Villalba provided more dynamic play on the wing, which allowed the Five Stripes to break through.

“Play a little bit more attacking,” Nagbe said of his adjusted role after the game. “Essentially, provide support on the ball, but if I can get isolated, if Tito can get isolated, then for us to go on the attack.”

De Boer remained calm during his halftime talk, despite the difficult first 45 minutes.

“He said that when he played with Barcelona that [he played these types of games],” González-Pírez told reporters.  “He said we have to keep patience, and do it and try and try and try, and we will find the scores. Finally we can find it.”

It was another tough night for Martínez, Atlanta’s blockbuster signing from River Plate. He took Atlanta’s first shot of the game, striking from distance and connecting with fans in the fifth row. The Argentine’s passes routinely missed their targets, and he still does not appear to be on the same page with his new teammates. The Five Stripes looked much better after Martínez’s exit, but that is in part due to the quality coming off the bench. 

“Everybody brings different characteristics, for sure,” midfielder Jeff Larentowicz said. “Tito’s different from [Ezequiel Barco], Pity’s different from Julian. It’s something else, especially if you’re a defender and you’ve been playing for 75 minutes against a guy that does one thing and then you bring another guy on that does something else, that’s both dangerous.

“If I’m worrying about covering Barco with the ball at his feet and closing him down for 75 minutes, and then you bring Tito on and he runs behind me, that’s going to be tough.”

Martínez joined Atlanta after a short offseason, and he sustained a hamstring injury in March. De Boer explained his playmaker still is not fully fit.

“I think he has to get stronger, physically stronger, and then he can [improve],” the manager said. “He’s still, in my point of view, not 100 percent. That’s why I let him play, like, 66 minutes. He will come to that, and it takes time. But I’m convinced if he gets to 100 percent, we’re going to have a lot of fun with him.”

Colorado (0-7-2, 2 points) hardly threatened until Atlanta scored. After Gressel beat Howard, the soon-to-retire goalkeeping icon, the Rapids pushed forward. But aside from an 88th-minute free header from substitute Nicolás Mezquida, which was saved by Brad Guzan, they did not stress Atlanta.

“We know it wasn’t pretty,” Guzan said of the victory. “At the end of the day, nobody’s going to remember whether it was a pretty game. One-nil, 10-nil, a win’s a win.”

The post Atlanta United tops Colorado Rapids 1-0 for much-needed home win appeared first on Pro Soccer USA.