After a two-month hiatus for the FIFA World Cup, ESPN has returned with the latest MLS Power Rankings.
Which team emerges the strongest post-break? Which side might struggle as summer intensifies? Our team of writers evaluated the performances from Matchday 18 to compile this week’s rankings. Let’s get started.
Previous Ranking: 1
Despite a lackluster attacking effort resulting in a 0-0 draw against Minnesota, the injury to star center back Ranko Veselinovic raises concerns. While the Whitecaps have depth, his potential absence combined with Sebastian Berhalter‘s expected transfer to Middlesbrough will surely test that depth.
Previous Ranking: 3
Even without star players Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul, Inter Miami secured a 1-0 victory over Montréal, courtesy of Casemiro making his MLS debut. However, the late withdrawal of Germán Berterame due to a serious head injury overshadowed the win.
Previous Ranking: 5
Son Heung-Min had a quiet scoring record prior to the World Cup break. However, he has come back strong, netting three goals in three matches, including one in LAFC’s 4-0 triumph over Sporting KC. The outlook for LAFC and their star player is looking brighter.
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LAFC vs. Sporting Kansas City – Game Highlights
Previous Ranking: 2
Nashville struggled against a re-energized Orlando side and suffered a 1-0 defeat, as both teams missed key players. Getting Cristian Espinoza and Patrick Yazbek back from injury will be crucial.
Previous Ranking: 4
San Jose showed resilience in a 1-1 draw against the Galaxy after falling behind early. They could have secured a win, but a missed penalty from Timo Werner proved costly.
Previous Ranking: 5
Real Salt Lake struggled to stay competitive in a 2-1 defeat against Portland, which followed the early red card of attacker Morgan Guilavogui. The team failed to threaten offensively and left Oregon without significant momentum.
Previous Ranking: 11
Minnesota managed a rare feat by effectively neutralizing Vancouver in a 0-0 draw, allowing only four shots to reach Drake Callender‘s box; a notable defensive accomplishment.
Previous Ranking: 9
In his second MLS appearance, Robert Lewandowski came off the bench for the Fire, but they faced a 3-1 defeat against NYCFC. His adjustment period in the league has officially begun.
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Will Lewandowski moving to Chicago Fire benefit MLS?
Previous Ranking: 8
Dallas struggled to make an impact against San Diego, managing only two shots in the first half and controlling just 26% of possession in a 1-0 defeat. The injury to newly signed goalkeeper Daniel only adds to their concerns.
Previous Ranking: 16
New York City FC appears ready for an ascent in the rankings after a solid 3-1 win against Chicago, highlighted by stellar performances from Nicolás Fernández in his new No. 10 role and new Designated Player Bénie Traoré making his second appearance for the club.
Previous Ranking: 13
Cincinnati was on track to secure three points against their rivals but faltered with two late goals conceded, ultimately losing 2-1 to Columbus. While there were bright spots, the team struggles with consistency.
Previous Ranking: 10
The Galaxy faced challenges in a 1-1 draw against the Earthquakes after losing a lead earned by Joseph Paintsil and giving away a late penalty after a foul by goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski. Nevertheless, Marcinkowski stepped up to secure a point for LA with a crucial save.
Previous Ranking: 14
The Revolution excelled by converting two of their first three shots against Atlanta, leading to a commanding 4-1 victory where every starter in the forward and midfield lines contributed to the score.
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New England Revolution vs. Atlanta United FC – Game Highlights
Previous Ranking: 7
The Sounders have hit a low point, suffering their fifth consecutive loss in MLS after a 1-0 defeat to Philadelphia. With struggling forwards and a slew of injuries, Seattle is facing a tough road ahead.
Previous Ranking: 15
Charlotte quickly took control against the Red Bulls, scoring through Pep Biel in the seventh minute and never looking back in their 2-0 victory.
Previous Ranking: 19
San Diego secured a hard-fought 1-0 win over Dallas, marking only their second victory this season in closely contested matches by avoiding critical red cards and late mistakes.
Previous Ranking: 17
The Dynamo achieved a decisive win against Texas rivals Austin, scoring three times in the first half while limiting chances for their opponents. A healthier Houston could soon make a significant impact in the West.
Previous Ranking: 18
St. Louis didn’t capitalize on their man advantage in the game against Colorado but snatched a late 1-0 win thanks to an 83rd-minute goal from Tomas Ostrak, placing them in the West’s automatic playoff spots.
Previous Ranking: 12
MLS returns from its World Cup hiatus with new players and coaches alike. Yet, one perennial issue persists for the New York Red Bulls: difficulty in keeping the ball out of the net. They fell 2-0 to Charlotte this weekend.
Previous Ranking: 20
Despite not being aesthetically pleasing, a late penalty from Tai Baribo in the 100th minute gave D.C. United a 2-1 victory over Toronto. While the team’s style might lack flair, four consecutive positive results cannot be ignored.
Previous Ranking: 21
In their latest rivalry match, Columbus triumphed 2-1 over Cincinnati. After conceding an early goal, strikes from Jamal Thiaré and Dániel Gazdag secured victory at home.
Previous Ranking: 23
Striker Felipe Mora fittingly scored twice in his final match for the Timbers before transferring to Atlético San Luis, leading Portland to a 2-1 win over Salt Lake. Mora leaves a significant legacy at the club after his contributions in the 2021 MLS Cup final.
Previous Ranking: 28
Despite predictable outcomes, Antoine Griezmann‘s arrival in Orlando has rejuvenated the team. Following a midweek victory in San Jose, Orlando City triumphed 1-0 over Nashville with Griezmann and young talent Justin Ellis leading the charge.
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Antoine Griezmann scores in his MLS debut
Previous Ranking: 27
Philadelphia’s form has improved significantly since returning from the World Cup, as they have won both of their matches, including a 1-0 victory over Seattle. The integration of defensive reinforcements and development of young talents are paying off handsomely.
Previous Ranking: 22
Colorado ranks as one of the league’s leaders in red cards with five, and their latest sending-off presented challenges in a 1-0 loss to St. Louis. Rob Holding‘s early dismissal forced tactical adjustments, leaving the Rapids with a tough challenge and ultimately no points from the Midwest.
Previous Ranking: 24
Montréal had numerous chances early but ultimately fell 1-0 to a Miami team missing Messi. The talent gap was evident in what proved to be a difficult match for the Impact.
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Montreal Impact vs. Inter Miami CF – Game Highlights
Previous Ranking: 25
With no permanent head coach until Jim Curtin takes over and a squad filled with disparities, Austin experienced a challenging 3-0 loss to Houston. Despite their high-profile front line, the team is clearly in a rebuilding phase.
Previous Ranking: 26
Toronto, lacking key players including star playmaker Djordje Mihailovic—who isn’t fit to start—suffered a 2-1 defeat to D.C. United. Coach Robin Fraser is eager for a healthier squad to work with.
Previous Ranking: 29
Kansas City’s struggles were evident in their 4-0 defeat to LAFC, highlighting the gap between them and the top teams in the West. There is substantial work ahead for this roster.
Previous Ranking: 30
Atlanta is winless in their last seven matches, suffering a significant 4-1 loss to the Revolution. While they have added a couple of summer signings, it’s apparent they need more reinforcements to be competitive.