MLS Weekend Recap: Nashville’s Big Victory, San Diego’s Revival, and Philadelphia’s Rising Star Cavan Sullivan

San Diego FC has faced a tough 2026 after an impressive debut season where they topped the Western Conference and made a deep playoff run. This year, their play has faltered, with many setbacks threatening to keep them out of the playoffs entirely. Still, recently their game has improved; mistakes have lessened, and spirits lifted. Their efforts culminated in a key win over LAFC on Saturday night, signaling potential for a turnaround.

Michael Bradley’s Red Bulls Struggle

Michael Bradley enjoyed a promising start as manager of the New York Red Bulls, but the initial shine has faded. Their open, attacking style has left them vulnerable defensively. Against Atlanta, despite taking the lead and creating chances, they couldn’t hold on. Atlanta capitalized on breaks, with Tristan Muyumba scoring a stunning equalizer and Fafa Picault adding a late winner. The Red Bulls’ 41 goals conceded highlight ongoing defensive issues.

Hany Mukhtar Shines as Nashville SC Dominates Inter Miami

The clash between Nashville SC and Inter Miami was a clear contrast in form. Nashville has been the most complete team in MLS, boasting the fewest goals conceded and the best goal difference in the East. Their partnership between Sam Surridge and Hany Mukhtar remains lethal. Miami, grappling with uncertainty and adjusting after Lionel Messi’s return following personal tragedy, struggled to connect. Nashville dominated, with Mukhtar scoring twice and playing a crucial role in two other goals during a 4-0 win. Although Messi provided a beautiful assist and hit the post twice, Miami failed to find the net, showing Nashville’s clinical edge.

Anders Dreyer Lifts San Diego FC Over LAFC

San Diego’s recent form has been more encouraging, riding a short unbeaten streak. On Saturday, despite being outshot and facing a handball that almost changed the game’s course, Anders Dreyer scored an 88th-minute penalty to secure a narrow 1-0 win against LAFC, who were aiming for the top spot in the West. Dreyer’s performance was a bright spot, even if he picked up a second yellow late in the match.

Marc Dos Santos Faces Pressure at LAFC

LAFC’s season under Marc Dos Santos has been uneven. Following Steve Cherundolo’s tenure, expectations were high, but tactical inconsistencies remain. Son Heung-Min’s goal tally is low relative to expectations, and new signings haven’t balanced the squad as hoped. Despite sitting third in the West, fan dissatisfaction has grown, culminating in a petition demanding Dos Santos’ dismissal. A 1-0 loss to San Diego did little to ease concerns.

Cavan Sullivan Emerges as Philadelphia Union’s Key Player

Cavan Sullivan, a teenage creative midfielder, has quickly become the focal point for Philadelphia Union’s recent success. Under former manager Bradley Carnell, the team played cautiously. Now, with more freedom, Sullivan thrives, drawing comparisons to a young Bukayo Saka. Alongside key additions like Kai Wagner, Sullivan helped the Union overturn a 2-0 deficit to beat NYCFC, earning their fourth consecutive MLS victory. His two assists in that match underline his growing influence and raise hopes for how far Philadelphia can go this season.

Seattle Sounders Face Depth Issues

Seattle Sounders manager Brian Schmetzer was frank about his team’s struggles, hinting at dissatisfaction with the current bench depth and roster options. Missing key players like Jordan Morris, Paul Arriola, Jesus Ferreira, and Cristian Roldan, Seattle has been stretched thin. Their 2-0 defeat to Vancouver reflected a solid effort but a lack of quality necessary to compete at a higher level right now.

Weekend Winners & Losers Summary

• Winner: Hany Mukhtar – instrumental in Nashville’s dominant win over Miami.
• Loser: Michael Bradley – Red Bulls' defensive frailties cost them against Atlanta.
• Winner: Anders Dreyer – scored decisive penalty for San Diego FC’s important victory.
• Loser: Marc Dos Santos – faces fan unrest amid LAFC’s inconsistent results.
• Winner: Cavan Sullivan – rising star driving Philadelphia Union’s recent winning streak.
• Loser: Craig Waibel – Seattle’s sporting director dealing with roster depth issues as team struggles.