MLS: 3 new MLS Cup contenders based on first two weeks

SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 07: Ike Opara #3 of the Minnesota United FC is congratulated by Chase Gasper #77 after Opara scored a goal against the San Jose Earthquakes during the first half of their MLS Soccer game in the first half at Earthquakes Stadium on March 07, 2020 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /

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VANCOUVER, BC – FEBRUARY 29: Alan Pulido #9 of Sporting Kansas City celebrates with teammates Ilie Sanchez #6 and Khiry Shelton #11 after scoring a goal on the Vancouver Whitecaps during MLS soccer action at BC Place on February 29, 2020 in Vancouver, Canada. (Photo by Rich Lam/Getty Images) /

1. Sporting KC

Without blowing my trumpet too much, which is difficult after conceding that I had Minnesota United pegged for regression, I did want to say I foresaw the 2020 resurgence for Sporting Kansas City. Perhaps not to this extent, I admit, but the signs were there throughout the offseason.

Sporting KC were never as poor as they performed in 2019, they would return the majority of the team that has seen them challenge as one of the most consistently elite teams in MLS in recent years, and they added a few crucial pieces, namely Yadi Kinda in central midfield and Alan Pulido to lead the line.

Both new signings have flourished since their arrival, scoring two goals apiece. And Sporting KC more generally have looked like a well-oiled machine. Johnny Russell is back to his best, the central midfield has been dominant, with Felipe Gutierrez still to add to it, while the defence is anchored by the everpresent Matt Besler and new signing Roberto Puncec. It also helps that they have won both matches with a goal difference of +6.

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Ultimately, through two weeks, Sporting KC have been the best team in MLS. And if that does not make them an early contender for MLS Cup, nothing will.

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