MLS returned with a bang over the weekend. We saw 43 goals scored across 12 games and plenty of notable debuts across the league. Here are some of the major takeaways from the weekend that was.
Where there is Evander there is hope
Aug 24, 2024; Portland, Oregon, USA; Portland Timbers midfielder Evander (10) reacts in the second half against St. Louis CITY SC at Providence Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
Evander has launched himself into stardom this season, leading a prolific Timbers attacking force that has already scored 54 goals this season â the most in the Western Conference and second-most in MLS.
The Brazilian’s supreme talent was on full display once again in a scintillating 4-4 draw with St. Louis City at Providence Park Saturday evening, capped off by his stunning free-kick in the ninth minute of stoppage time to earn the point.
Evander made history on the night as well, becoming the fastest Timber to reach 20 goals and 20 assists for the club, hitting that milestone in 48 games, 14 games quicker then Portland and MLS legend Diego Valeri.
The Timbers may be on the bubble when it comes to MLS Cup Playoff contention, but with the magnificent Brazilian in the center of the park, anything is possible.
Summer signings are already shining
Aug 24, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; Austin FC forward Osman Bukari (7) celebrates after scoring a goal against Nashville SC during the second half at Geodis Park. Mandatory Credit: Casey Gower-USA TODAY Sports
While MLS may be transitioning into one of the major ‘selling leagues’ in the global transfer market, there have been quite a few notable summer signings, and they have hit the ground running all around the league.
In Minnesota, Kelvin Yeboah became the first United player to score multiple goals in his MLS debut for the club. Luca Langoni made his New England debut in the Revs’ thumping win against MontrĂŠal, coming off the bench to bag a goal and an assist.
Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund legend Marco Reus announced himself on the scene in Los Angeles his own respective goal and assist off the bench.
And although he signed for the club much earlier in the summer, Austin winger Osman Bukari finally bagged his first goal in MLS after the Leagues Cup break, showing a level of talent that could change the Verde’s fortunes down the stretch this season.
This weekend should serve as a reminder to quite a few clubs in MLS that don’t care much for loosening the…