MLS Weekend Review: Nashville's Big Victory, San Diego's Revival, and Philly's Rising Star Cavan Sullivan
The MLS weekend offered much more than just Nashville SC’s impressive win over Inter Miami. Several storylines unfolded, revealing shifts in form and new narratives across the league.
San Diego FC Shows Signs of Life
After a stellar inaugural season topping the Western Conference and making a deep playoff push, San Diego FC has struggled badly this year. Their style hasn’t clicked, leading to a risk of missing the playoffs entirely—a steep fall from grace. However, recent matches suggest improvement: fewer costly errors and better football overall. Their efforts culminated Saturday night with a crucial victory against LAFC.
Challenges for Michael Bradley and LAFC
Michael Bradley enjoyed a strong start as Red Bulls manager, but cracks have appeared. His team, while attacking, has been vulnerable defensively. Against Atlanta, despite taking an early lead, they conceded two late goals and lost 2-1, highlighting defensive frailties. LAFC faces a turbulent time too. Despite contending for the Western Conference top spot, fan dissatisfaction has sparked a Change.org petition calling for manager Marc Dos Santos's dismissal following a loss to San Diego.
Weekend Winners and Losers
Winner: Hany Mukhtar
The clash between Nashville SC and Inter Miami had high expectations. Nashville has been the strongest Eastern Conference team, conceding the fewest goals and boasting the best goal difference. The partnership of Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar remains potent. Miami entered amid turmoil despite Lionel Messi returning after his father's death. Messi’s brilliance was evident with a sublime assist, but he also missed a key penalty and twice hit the post. Nashville dominated, scoring four times with Mukhtar netting twice and playing a central role in their clinical display. On this night, Mukhtar outshone even Messi.
Loser: Michael Bradley
The Red Bulls’ open, expansive playstyle leaves them exposed at times. After scoring first against Atlanta, fatigue set in and defensive gaps appeared. Atlanta’s Tristan Muyumba equalized with a stunning curling shot, and Fafa Picault sealed the comeback with a rare headed goal. The Red Bulls’ 41 goals conceded so far underline their need for defensive tightening.
Winner: Anders Dreyer
San Diego FC needed a boost after their 2026 struggles. Their undefeated streak recently has brought hope. Against LAFC, despite being outshot and suffering an unfortunate handball that led to a goal against them, Danish winger Anders Dreyer scored a decisive penalty in the 88th minute, securing a 1-0 win. This victory prevented LAFC from climbing to the top of the West standings.
Loser: Marc Dos Santos
This season has been difficult for LAFC under Marc Dos Santos. Following the departure of Steve Cherundolo, Dos Santos faced pressure to maintain success. Fan frustration is clear, fueled by tactical issues and underwhelming contributions from key players like Son Heung-Min, who has only four MLS goals this season. A loss to San Diego intensified doubts, sparking fan protests.
Winner: Cavan Sullivan
Cavan Sullivan has emerged as a bright spark for Philadelphia Union. Freed from the restrictive tactics of former coach Bradley Carnell, the young midfielder has thrived. Alongside the smart signing of Kai Wagner, Sullivan’s creativity shines. Against NYCFC, he assisted twice as the Union overturned a 2-0 deficit to claim a fourth straight MLS win. Sullivan’s fearless style draws comparisons to a young Bukayo Saka, giving Philadelphia new reasons to dream.
Loser: Craig Waibel
Seattle Sounders coach Brian Schmetzer openly criticized the club’s bench and prospects during a tough 2-0 loss to Vancouver. Missing key players like Jordan Morris, Paul Arriola, Jesus Ferreira, and Cristian Roldan left the squad thin. Schmetzer suggested that promoting from the MLS Next Pro team isn’t enough to lift performance. His remarks seemed aimed at Sporting Director Craig Waibel, indicating frustration at the squad’s current state despite a decent effort on the pitch.
