MLS Teams Build Momentum with Unbeaten Streaks Ahead of Playoffs

As the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs draw nearer, Major League Soccer (MLS) teams are striving to gain momentum by securing positive outcomes in the season’s critical stages. Several teams emerged from Matchday 36 with impressive unbeaten runs, enhancing their positions in the standings.

Mason Toye, playing for Montreal, scored twice to secure a victory in their match against D.C. United, propelling Montreal above the Eastern Conference playoff line to eighth place. Meanwhile, Seattle Sounders, powered by midfielder Albert Rusnák’s performance with one goal and two assists, climbed to third in the Western Conference following a commanding win against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Inter Miami, under the leadership of coach Tata Martino, continues an impressive nine-game unbeaten streak, boasting six wins and three draws. Key player Lionel Messi contributed with two goals in their match against Philadelphia Union, ensuring Inter Miami’s top finish in the 2024 regular season standings. This success also secures Miami hosting priority for the MLS Cup, presented by Audi.

LA Galaxy’s playoff aspirations remain alive thanks to Javier "Chicharito" Hernández‘s two goals in stoppage-time, culminating in a thrilling win over Sporting Kansas City. LAFC midfielder José Cifuentes also achieved a brace, driving his team to victory against the San Jose Earthquakes, thus maintaining their lead in the Western Conference.

John Tolkin, Erik Sviatchenko, and Mitja Ilenič, forming the defensive trio in the Team of the Matchday, all scored this week. Tolkin’s second goal this season aided New York Red Bulls in their triumph against Nashville SC. Sviatchenko netted for Houston Dynamo against the Portland Timbers, while Ilenič contributed to New York City‘s victory against Orlando City SC.

Veteran goalkeeper Brad Stuver from Austin FC played a pivotal role with 11 saves, helping his team secure a draw against the Portland Timbers and keeping his side’s playoff hopes alive. Stuver has accumulated eight clean sheets this season.

For Matchday 36, the Team of the Matchday lined up in a 3-4-3 formation, featuring Brad Stuver (ATX) as the goalkeeper, defenders John Tolkin (RBNY), Erik Sviatchenko (HOU), and Mitja Ilenič (NYC). The midfield comprised of Riqui Puig (LA), Hernán López (SJ), Gabriel Pirani (DC), and Albert Rusnák (SEA). The forward line included Lionel Messi (MIA), Josef Martínez (MTL), and Karol Swiderski (CLT), with Tata Martino (MIA) named as the coach.

The bench featured Dayne St. Clair (MIN), Coco Carrasquilla (HOU), Santiago Rodríguez (NYC), Hany Mukhtar (NSH), Pep Biel (CLT), Lewis Morgan (RBNY), Denis Bouanga (LAFC), Gabriel Pec (LA), and Luis Muriel (ORL).