Major League Soccer Fantasy Game Week 29: A Critical Double-Header

The penultimate round of the 2024 Major League Soccer (MLS) Fantasy season has arrived, presenting players with one of the most crucial double-game weeks of the season. Round 29 holds significant weight as participants vie for season-long titles and head-to-head championships. In this decisive week, all but two teams—Chicago Fire and Sporting Kansas City—are scheduled to play twice, allowing fantasy managers to make strategic moves ahead of the final round.

This round offers an expansive platform for players to solidify their standings. Among the noteworthy performers is Kristijan Kahlina, who currently leads the league with ten clean sheets. As the highest-scoring goalkeeper in MLS Fantasy with just one goal conceded in the past two matches, Kahlina is well-positioned for another stellar performance, with Charlotte FC set to host both the Chicago Fire and CF Montréal.

Notably, defenders such as Tim Ream from Charlotte are expected to be pivotal. Since joining from Fulham, Ream has demonstrated consistency, essential as the playoffs loom. Ream’s impact on upcoming matches against Chicago Fire and CF Montréal could significantly influence fantasy outcomes.

Attention also turns to Evander, the Portland Timbers’ Brazilian midfielder who returns from suspension for this double-game week. Evander, a standout in the Landon Donovan MVP conversation, is leading his team with 245 points this season. With Portland sitting on the playoff bubble, Evander’s contributions against Austin FC and FC Dallas are critical for fantasy managers.

Across other teams, Columbus Crew remains in the hunt for the Supporters’ Shield, with Cucho Hernández expected to play a crucial role against Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi of Inter Miami continues to be a sought-after asset for fantasy participants, as Miami aims to clinch the Supporters’ Shield in their matchups against Columbus Crew and Toronto FC.

As the season draws closer to its conclusion, fantasy managers have a multitude of strategic decisions to make. With playoff scenarios and long-distance travel impacting potential player rotation, managers must weigh their options carefully in pursuit of fantasy glory.