Welcome Back to Major League Soccer!
Welcome back, soccer enthusiasts! We are less than 24 hours away from the 30th season of Major League Soccer, and the excitement is palpable. As teams prepare to kick off their campaigns, several narratives are emerging that will dominate the conversation on opening weekend. From the return of a global superstar to the debut of a new expansion team, the stage is set for a thrilling start to the MLS season.
Fixture of the Weekend: Inter Miami vs. New York City FC
All eyes are on the Supporters Shield winners, Inter Miami, as they face off against New York City FC in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. The pressure is firmly on Lionel Messi to lead the Herons to a strong start, something that will be crucial after a grueling end to last season where they finished with an impressive 11-match unbeaten run. New coach Javier Mascherono, who has had mixed results in pre-season games against MLS sides (2-2 against Orlando and 1-0 over Sporting KC), will also be under the spotlight. How he manages the team’s energy and tactics will be a key storyline.
On the other side, New York City FC is hoping to break their five-season opener losing streak. They have had a more relaxed pre-season, playing just six fixtures under new head coach Pascal Jansen and only losing one. However, injuries to key players like Thiago Martins, Tayvon Gray, and the potential departure of playmaker Santiago RodrÃguez to Brazil’s Botafogo could hinder their performance. Despite the odds, this is a golden opportunity for the Cityzens to assert themselves in the new season.
Player to Watch: Evander at FC Cincinnati
FC Cincinnati is set to introduce a new star to their ranks with the arrival of Evander from the Portland Timbers. The 26-year-old Brazilian has wasted no time in making his mark, scoring a thunderous volley and providing an assist just four days after completing his transfer in a pre-season friendly against F.C. Motagua. Evander’s combination of mental fortitude and technical prowess makes him a formidable addition to the Cincinnati lineup. As an MVP hopeful, he is determined to start the 2025 season strong, especially when facing the New York Red Bulls. With the support of new signings like Kévin Denkey and Luca Orellano, Evander is poised to elevate the team’s performance further.
San Diego FC’s Inaugural Game: A New Era Begins
San Diego FC, the latest expansion team to join MLS, will make its debut in a high-profile clash against MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy. This inaugural game is a significant moment for the club, and the pressure will be immense on players like Hirving ‘Chucky’ Lozano and Luca de la Torre to deliver. While there is excitement and anticipation surrounding this new team, the history of expansion sides is not on their side; only one of six expansion teams has won their MLS debut. The challenge is clear: San Diego FC needs to make a strong first impression to establish themselves in the league and gain the confidence of their supporters.
LA Galaxy Without Riqui Puig: Adjusting to a New Reality
The LA Galaxy, fresh off their MLS Cup victory, face a new and daunting challenge as they prepare for the season without their star midfielder, Riqui Puig. The 25-year-old suffered a torn ACL and is expected to return in August, leaving a significant void in the team’s attacking lineup. Puig’s contributions last season were invaluable, with 13 goals and 15 assists in 29 games. The Galaxy must quickly find a way to fill this gap, whether through strategic tactical adjustments or by relying on other players to step up. Matchday One will be a crucial test of their adaptability and resilience.
Honorable Mentions: Other Exciting Openers
While the Inter Miami vs. New York City FC and San Diego FC vs. LA Galaxy matches are the main draws, there are several other fixtures that promise to be equally exciting. Atlanta United will go head-to-head with CF Montreal, a repeat of their thrilling U.S. Open Cup final. Meanwhile, Portland will face Vancouver, and LA Galaxy will also have a regional rivalry matchup with San Diego FC. These games will set the tone for the season and provide fans with plenty of drama and excitement from the very start.
Looking Ahead: The Battle for the Top Spot
As the 30th season of MLS kicks off, the competition for the top spot is more intense than ever. Teams will be eager to build on their pre-season performances and start the regular season on a high note. Whether it’s the star power of Messi and Inter Miami, the resilience of New York City FC, the fresh energy of San Diego FC, or the strategic adjustments of LA Galaxy, every team brings its unique story and ambition to the field. Opening weekend is not just about the results; it’s about setting the stage for a season filled with incredible moments and unforgettable matches. So, mark your calendars, get your jerseys ready, and settle in for what promises to be a thrilling start to the 2025 MLS season.
