MLS Weekend Review: Nashville’s Big Win, San Diego’s Revival, and Philly’s Rising Star Cavan Sullivan

San Diego FC Shows Signs of Life

San Diego FC has faced a tough season after an impressive inaugural run last year that saw them top the Western Conference and reach the MLS Cup final. Since then, their form has dropped drastically, and they risk missing the playoffs. Recently, though, their performances have improved with fewer mistakes and better overall play. This progress was highlighted by a crucial victory over LAFC on Saturday night.

Nashville SC Dominates Inter Miami

The clash between Nashville SC and Inter Miami was a fascinating matchup of contrasting situations. Nashville has been the most consistent team in MLS this season, boasting the fewest goals conceded and the best goal difference in the Eastern Conference. The partnership between Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar continues to be lethal.

Miami entered the game amidst uncertainty, with Lionel Messi recently returning after a personal loss but still struggling to find rhythm with his teammates. Despite Messi’s moments of brilliance, including a sublime assist, Miami couldn’t break through Nashville’s defense. Nashville scored four goals, with Mukhtar netting twice and playing a key role in the others, showing he outshone Messi on the night.

Key Match Highlights

• Score: Nashville SC 4 - Inter Miami 0
• Hany Mukhtar: Two goals and pivotal in other scoring plays
• Lionel Messi: Assisted once, missed a penalty, hit the post twice

Michael Bradley Faces Challenges with Red Bulls

Michael Bradley had a promising start as manager of the New York Red Bulls, but cracks are appearing. Their open style leaves gaps at the back, and the defense has conceded 41 goals so far. In their recent match against Atlanta United, the Red Bulls took the lead but allowed two late goals, including a spectacular strike from Tristan Muyumba and a rare header by Fafa Picault, resulting in a 2-1 loss. Bradley needs to address the defensive weaknesses as inconsistency continues to plague the team.

Anders Dreyer Steps Up for San Diego

Amid a difficult season, Anders Dreyer has delivered when it counts. San Diego’s recent win over LAFC was sealed by Dreyer converting a late penalty in the 88th minute. Despite being outshot and a controversial handball incident benefiting LAFC earlier, San Diego held on for a narrow 1-0 victory. This result lifts their spirits and adds hope after months of struggles.

Match Details

• San Diego FC 1 - LAFC 0
• Dreyer: Scored the winning penalty
• Controversy: Handball on Denis Bouanga goal disallowed

Marc Dos Santos Under Pressure at LAFC

LAFC’s season has been turbulent under Marc Dos Santos. Though they sit third in the West, fan frustration is mounting, culminating in a petition demanding his dismissal. Tactical issues persist, and new signings haven’t provided the expected balance. Star forward Son Heung-Min has only four MLS goals this season. Their recent 1-0 defeat to San Diego hasn’t helped ease concerns.

Cavan Sullivan Shines for Philadelphia Union

The emergence of Cavan Sullivan is turning heads. The young midfielder’s performances have brought new energy and creativity to the Philadelphia Union, who appear less restrained compared to their previous manager Bradley Carnell’s cautious approach. Sullivan contributed two assists in a comeback win against NYCFC, helping the Union overturn a 2-0 deficit and extend their winning streak to four matches. Alongside Kai Wagner’s addition, Sullivan’s fearless playstyle offers hope for a promising future.

Philadelphia Union Key Stats

• Current streak: Four straight wins
• Sullivan: Two assists vs NYCFC

Seattle Sounders Struggle Amid Absences

Seattle Sounders lost 2-0 to the Vancouver Whitecaps despite a decent effort. Manager Brian Schmetzer expressed frustration about the lack of quality options on the bench, indirectly criticizing Sporting Director Craig Waibel. The team is missing key players like Jordan Morris, Paul Arriola, Jesus Ferreira, and Cristian Roldan, which has stretched the squad thin. While the Sounders showed commitment, they lack the quality to secure positive results at the moment.