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The Podium™️: Who made it for Matchday 7?

By Anthony Rotz

CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 11: Thiago Almada #23 of Atlanta United prepares to pass the ball during a game between Atlanta United FC and Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium on March 11, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Steve Limentani/ISI Photos/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NC - MARCH 11: Thiago Almada #23 of Atlanta United prepares to pass the ball during a game between Atlanta United FC and Charlotte FC at Bank of America Stadium on March 11, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Steve Limentani/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /
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It’s time to find out who made The Podium™️ for Matchday 7.

🥉 Thiago Almada (Atlanta FC)

A player you probably have never heard of, Almada’s MVP campaign is still in full swing. His assist to Giorgos Giakoumakis proved vital as Atlanta drew 1-1 with NYCFC, and took his league-leading total to five.

He recently discussed his admiration for Riquelme, and the World Cup winner looked the part of his idol on Saturday. A masterful passing display showcased the 21-year-old’s array of skills as he launched a barrage of crosses and long balls. Operating in a classic 10 role, Almada glided through the New York midfield and space on the left flank to pressure NYCFC constantly. Ultimately, that pressure proved too much.

🥈 Jefferson Savarino (Real Salt Lake)

Following a triumphant return to Real Salt Lake last season, Savarino has started 2023 slowly, at least relative to his lofty standards. With Real Salt Lake in dire need of a win against Charlotte FC, Savarino came through with his best performance of the season.

The winger dominated his flank, supplying plenty of passes, while creating opportunities for himself with steady runs inside. The Venezuelan got off five quality shots, scoring on his fourth in the 62nd minute.

Aside from his offensive contributions, Savarino was also a defensive force, dominating duels and keeping opponents in front at all times.

🥇 Denis Bouanga (LAFC)

With all due respect to Jordan Morris, this season’s MVP race could easily come down to Thiago Almada and Denis Bouanga. Last night the Gabonese international made another emphatic, early claim for the award.

A 71-minute hat trick takes Bouanga to the top of The Podium™️ and his goal total so six. Austin FC had no answers for an in-form Bouanga coming off a three-goal contribution performance in the CONCACAF Champions League. Whether it was getting onto a pass or creating space for himself, Bouanga was showing out. The winger managed as many shots on target as the entire Austin team. It’s likely Austin decided to just enjoy the show for the second half following the forward’s first goal.

Honorable Mentions: Aljaž Ivačič (POR), Matt Miazga (CIN), Julian Gressel (VAN), Andres Gomez (RSL), Carles Gil (NE), Dylan Borrero (NE), Amine Bassi (HOU), Jesus Ferreira (DAL), Kei Kamara (CHI)

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