MLS Weekend Review: Nashville Shines Over Miami, San Diego Rebounds, and Philly's Rise with Cavan Sullivan
San Diego FC has had a tough season after last year's impressive run, when they topped the Western Conference and came close to winning the MLS Cup. This year, their form dipped significantly, and it looked like they might miss the playoffs entirely. Mistakes piled up, and their style of play struggled to click. But recently, signs of improvement have emerged. The team looks more cohesive, errors have lessened, and their mood lifted. On Saturday night, they secured a crucial 1-0 victory against LAFC, marking a positive turn.
Nashville SC Dominates Inter Miami
The clash between Nashville SC and Inter Miami CF showcased two sides at very different points in the season. Nashville remains one of the most balanced teams in the league, conceding the fewest goals and boasting the best goal difference in the Eastern Conference. Their strike partnership of Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar continues to deliver. Miami, still grappling with inconsistency despite Lionel Messi's return from personal tragedy, struggled to find rhythm. Though Messi contributed a sublime assist for Telasco Segovia, he missed a key penalty and Miami failed to convert multiple chances. Nashville was clinical, with Mukhtar scoring twice and playing a vital role in two other goals as they rolled to a 4-0 win, outclassing Miami on the night.
Michael Bradley Faces Challenges at Red Bulls
Michael Bradley’s promising start as New York Red Bulls manager seems to be fading. The Red Bulls played expansive, attacking football but showed vulnerability, especially defensively. Against Atlanta, despite taking the lead and creating chances, they conceded two late goals—one a stunning strike from Tristan Muyumba and another a rare header by Fafa Picault. With 41 goals allowed so far, the Red Bulls need to tighten their defense if they want consistent results.
Anders Dreyer Steps Up for San Diego
After a rocky season, Anders Dreyer came through for San Diego FC with a decisive 88th-minute penalty against LAFC. Despite being outshot and a controversial handball goal against them, Dreyer’s calm finish secured a 1-0 win and helped San Diego extend their unbeaten streak. Though he earned a second yellow late in the match, his contribution was key in halting LAFC’s push toward the top of the Western Conference.
Marc Dos Santos Under Pressure at LAFC
LAFC’s season has been uneven under Marc Dos Santos, who took over from Steve Cherundolo. Fans have grown restless, staging a Change.org petition demanding his dismissal despite the team sitting third in the West. Son Heung-Min has only four MLS goals this season, below expectations, and new signings have not brought the balance needed. The 1-0 loss to San Diego hasn’t eased tensions, leaving Dos Santos’s future uncertain even if the team still has potential to win the MLS Cup.
Cavan Sullivan Sparks Philadelphia Union
Teenager Cavan Sullivan is proving to be a revelation for the Philadelphia Union. Since his introduction, the team has looked freer and more adventurous compared to the cautious approach under former coach Bradley Carnell. Sullivan’s fearless creativity has drawn comparisons to a young Bukayo Saka. Recently, he assisted twice in a comeback win against NYCFC, helping the Union overturn a 2-0 deficit and secure their fourth consecutive victory. Alongside the brilliant signing of Kai Wagner, Sullivan is giving the Union fresh hope.
Seattle Sounders Struggle Amid Injuries
Seattle Sounders’ head coach Brian Schmetzer expressed frustration after their 2-0 defeat to Vancouver Whitecaps. With key players like Jordan Morris, Paul Arriola, Jesus Ferreira, and Cristian Roldan sidelined, the squad looks thin on quality, despite effort. Schmetzer’s comments hinted at disappointment with bench depth and subtly pointed to Sporting Director Craig Waibel's challenges in maintaining squad strength. The Sounders are still competitive but missing that extra quality to push forward.
