MLS matchday 26 delivered a ton of storylines. From top-five clashes to big upsets, let’s dig into the five things we learned from the action.
The Portland Timbers are the real deal
Jul 13, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Timbers goalkeeper James Pantemis (41) celebrates the win with midfielder Evander (10) against Real Salt Lake at Providence Park. Mandatory Credit: Soobum Im-USA TODAY Sports
Phil Neville appears to have his Timbers side humming. The Cascadia club have been on a tear since hitting rock-bottom against rivals Seattle back in may, only losing twice in 12 MLS games.
In that time they’ve climbed up the Western Conference standings, and now they have their signature result to cap off the hot-streak after beating Real Salt Lake by a staggering 3-0 scoreline Saturday evening.
The attacking force of Evander, Felipe Mora, and Jonathan Rodríguez has proven to be one of the best in the division. The trio have racked up 55 goal contributions between them and do not appear to be slowing down anytime soon.
Phil Neville’s side now sit just two points out of the top-four in the West.
Columbus are the true kings of MLS
Jul 13, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Columbus Crew forward Christian Ramirez (17) celebrates with midfielder Alexandru Matan (20) and defender Steven Moreira (31) after scoring a goal in the second half against LAFC at BMO Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
As statement wins go, it doesn’t get much bigger than storming into BMO Stadium and thumping LAFC 5-1 — but that is exactly what the Crew did over the weekend.
Christian Ramirez, Cucho Hernández, and Diego Rossi continue to run riot on even the best defensive forces in the league, while the unrelenting press keeps teams from launching any attacks on the Crew rearguard.
Wilfried Nancy’s side have won nine of their last 11 games in MLS and after leaving Los Angeles with a scalp on Saturday, they reminded everybody that whoever wants to win MLS Cup, and the Supporters Shield will have to go through Columbus first.
It was only a blip for Charlotte
Jul 13, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Charlotte FC forward Kerwin Vargas (18) celebrates scoring during the second half against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports
Charlotte’s hot streak burnt out in recent weeks, and they headed into a showdown with Eastern Conference leaders FC Cincinnati over the weekend on the back of two straight…