MLS is Back: Power Rankings after Matchday Two

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REUNION, FLORIDA – JULY 16: Ayo Akinola #20 of Toronto FC celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal in the 25th minute during a Group C match against the Montreal Impact as part of the MLS Is Back Tournament at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on July 16, 2020, in Reunion, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

5 – Seattle Sounders (-4)

The reigning MLS Cup champions could be on their way out of the MLS is Back tournament after a surprising defeat in their second group game of the event, losing 2-1 to Chicago Fire, who were playing their first match in Orlando.

The two sides had met in the season-opener on March 1, with the Seattle Sounders having won 2-1, but this match-up in Group B was a complete reversal, as the Fire took the victory by the same scoreline, through goals from Robert Beric and Mauricio Pineda.

The Sounders got back on level terms in b between those two goals from the Fire, with Handwalla Bwana scoring the equaliser, but defensive frailties seem to be plaguing the Rave Green this season, and they drop down our Power Rankings.

Remaining Group Matches: Group B – vs. Vancouver Whitecaps (July 19, 10:30 pm ET)

4 – Philadelphia Union (+2)

Two wins from two matches for the Philadelphia Union, and they have stamped their ticket into the knockout stages of MLS is Back. It hasn’t been convincing, but six points is the perfect return to the game after the lengthy suspension due to COVID-19.

Kai Wagner got the Union off to the perfect start with a goal inside the opening five minutes of their second Group A game against Inter Miami. The Floridian side equalised before the break, but a Kacper Przybylko second-half strike gave Philly the W.

Their final group game is a winner-takes-all clash against Orlando City. Both sides have won their opening two games of the MLS is Back Tournament, and a third win for the Union would see them go through to the knockout stage as group winners.

Remaining Group Matches: Group A – vs. Orlando City (July 20, 8 pm ET)

3 – Minnesota United (-1)

The final 100% run of the season is over after four games, but Minnesota United are still top of the Western Conference with 10 points, and their destiny is in their own hands when it comes to qualification from Group D in MLS is Back.

The Loons played out a scoreless draw with Real Salt Lake, and although they did have their chances, including striking the post in the first half, they were unable to capitalise. However, Minnesota remain undefeated in 2020.

Adrian’s Heath side are still one of the best in Major League Soccer right now and know that a victory against Colorado, who have lost both of their group games so far, will see them through to the knockout stages of the tournament.

Remaining Group Matches: Group D – vs. Colorado Rapids (July 22, 10:30 pm ET)

2 – Los Angeles FC (+3)

Six goals. Against your cross-city rivals. Putting yourself in prime position to qualify for the knockout stages. That is exactly what Los Angeles FC did on Saturday night as they put six past the Galaxy in the latest version of El Trafico.

They went behind twice in the first half, through a Latif Blessing own goal and a Cristian Pavon spot-kick, but the reigning Supporters’ Shield winners were level at the break thanks to a Diego Rossi double.

The little Uruguayan went on to score two more in the second half to take his tally for the game to four, whilst also setting up Bradley Wright-Phillips to become the first player to have a hand in five goals in two separate MLS games. LAFC now sit 2nd in Group F, knowing a win in their final group game against Portland would see them secure top spot.

Remaining Group Matches: Group F – vs. Portland Timbers (July 23, 10:30 pm ET)

1 – Toronto FC (+2)

They may have shipped three goals, but Toronto FC make a move to the top of the Power Rankings after the second round of group matches at MLS is Back as they top Group C thanks to a rollercoaster victory over Canadian rivals Montreal Impact.

An early goal from Richie Laryea was cancelled out by Romell Quioto before Ayo Akinola got going, with two goals before the break, either side of a Saphir Taider penalty kick, as Toronto took a 3-2 lead at the break.

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Akinola got his third of the game, and fifth of the tournament, with seven minutes to go to give TFC an unassailable lead, despite a second Taider spot-kick in stoppage time. The 2017 MLS Cup champions go top of Group C with a game to go, and that come against the Revs.

Remaining Group Matches: Group C – vs. New England Revolution (July 21, 9 am ET)

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