New England Revolution Surprise MLS Contenders
The New England Revolution have exceeded expectations in Marko Mitrović’s first year as head coach. The team sits second in the Eastern Conference after a gritty 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union, showcasing a resilient spirit that has reclaimed a league-high 12 points from losing positions.
Mitrović inherited a squad that missed the previous two postseasons but boasts top-end talent like Carles Gil, who assisted the equalizer and scored the winner against Philadelphia. Luca Langoni has emerged as a reliable second option, while Matt Turner remains in fine form and center-back Mamadou Fofana is an early Best XI candidate.
However, underlying numbers reveal work to be done. The Revs rank last in the East in expected goals (13 xG through 11 games) and sixth-to-last in expected goal difference. The team must become more consistent before the summer transfer window, but for now, their fighting spirit has restored hope among fans.
Little Separates the West’s Best
In the Western Conference, the San Jose Earthquakes and Vancouver Whitecaps lead the pack after a thrilling 2-2 draw. Preston Judd scored for San Jose with his first touch, while Sebastian Berhalter equalized for Vancouver. Both teams play exciting soccer but in different styles: Vancouver relies on a well-rehearsed system, while San Jose under Bruce Arena empowers players to maximize their strengths.
James Rodríguez Makes His Mark
James Rodríguez’s short stint with Minnesota United finally saw a goal contribution, as he provided two assists in a 2-2 draw with LAFC. The Colombia legend struggled with fitness and health, but his impact was felt in his final appearances. Sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad emphasized the flexibility of his unique half-year deal, which includes a club option to extend through 2026.
Odds and Ends
Michael Bradley made his 151st and final USMNT cap, while his Red Bulls beat Gregg Berhalter’s Chicago Fire 3-1. Lionel Messi reached 100 MLS goal contributions in record time (64 games) during Toronto FC’s 3-0 win over Columbus. Hannes Wolf scored a perfect hat-trick for NYCFC in a 3-0 victory over the Crew.
