A Shifting Landscape in the MLS Power Rankings
We’ve seen another significant shakeup in the top-10 of the MLS power rankings, with the Eastern Conference teams continuing to dominate the upper echelon of the standings. However, the Western Conference has provided the most dramatic shifts in positioning. Let’s dive into the latest top-10 to see which teams are rising and which are falling.
Portland Timbers: Steady as She Goes
assaulting the top-10, the Portland Timbers have managed to hold their ground, remaining in 10th place. Under the guidance of Phil Neville, the Timbers have now gone six consecutive matches without a loss. The team’s resilience was on full display during their thrilling 3-3 draw with LAFC over the weekend, where they fought back from two separate deficits, both conceded in stoppage time. While some in the Rose City might be disappointed with the drawn result, the Timbers have shown that they can compete with the league’s elite when the stakes are highest.
Austin FC: Back in the Fold
After a brief hiatus from the top-10, Austin FC has reclaimed the 9th spot, thanks to a narrow 1-0 victory over the LA Galaxy. Despite pouring significant resources into their attacking lineup over the past two offseasons, Austin has struggled to unlock their full potential. However, their recent win, even against a struggling LA Galaxy, is a promising sign. The team will take the three points and hope to build momentum as the season progresses.
LAFC: A Mixed Bag
The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) finds itself in 8th place, a slight step down from previous weeks. The team’s performance is a bit of a rollercoaster, with one week feeling like they are on the brink of a major breakthrough and the next requiring a miraculous free-kick and stoppage-time penalty to secure a point. Nevertheless, under Steve Cherundolo, LAFC remains one of the most talented teams in the league, capable of making a deep run at any moment.
Minnesota United: A Victim of Their Own Success
Minnesota United has slipped to 7th place, a victim of the impressive performances by other teams in the league over the past week. Despite a goalless draw with FC Dallas, Eric Ramsay’s side continues to be one of the most well-drilled teams in MLS. However, the lack of a spark in the final third has sometimes been their Achilles’ heel. As the season progresses, they will need to find that extra bit of magic to climb back up the rankings.
Cincinnati: Finding Their Stride
Cincinnati has been on a mission to reclaim their position as one of the top contenders for the MLS Cup. After a mid-season lull while focusing on the Concacaf Champions Cup, the team has won four consecutive matches, reminding everyone of their capabilities. With a few more weeks of form, Cincinnati is likely to continue its upward trajectory, making a strong case for a top spot in the Eastern Conference.
Philadelphia Union: Back on Track
The Philadelphia Union, always a force to be reckoned with, have bounced back from a minor slump with a convincing 3-0 victory over Atlanta United. Thanks to their strong start to the season, the Union remain just three points out of the top spot in the Eastern Conference. With the league’s leading goal-scorer leading the charge, the Union are well-positioned to make a serious run towards the top of the standings.
Columbus Crew: A Setback in the Hunt
For the first time in a while, the Columbus Crew have dropped in the rankings, falling to 4th place after a disappointing ‘home’ loss to Inter Miami. The game highlighted the Crew’s ongoing struggle to find a ruthless finisher, as they dominated possession but failed to convert their opportunities into goals. Despite this setback, Columbus remains a strong contender and will be looking to bounce back in the coming weeks.
Charlotte FC: On a Roll
Charlotte FC, under Dean Smith, continues to impress, rising to 3rd place after an emphatic victory over San Diego on Saturday. The team’s performance at home has been nothing short of dominant, with eight consecutive games without a defeat. Charlotte currently sits atop the Eastern Conference, and their consistent form makes them a formidable opponent for anyone in the league.
Vancouver Whitecaps: A Brief Hiatus from the Top
The Vancouver Whitecaps, who briefly held the top spot in our rankings, have dropped to 2nd place after a goalless draw with St. Louis City. The team, known for their high-flying style, had a more subdued performance but still managed to secure a point. With an upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup match against Inter Miami, the Whitecaps may be saving some of their best for the big stage.
Inter Miami: Back on Top
Leading the pack once again, Inter Miami has reclaimed the top spot in the MLS power rankings. Despite a result that saw them ride their luck in Cleveland, Javier Mascherano’s side always seems to find a way to win when the chips are down. With a resilient squad and a growing chemistry, Inter Miami looks set to continue their dominance and remain a top contender for the MLS Cup.
