Nashville SC began their 2025 MLS season with a scoreless draw against New England Revolution at GEODIS Park. The scoreboard may not have told much of the story, but the game showed a great deal about what can be expected from these sides. As a season opener, it was about proving endurance and being able to adapt, a reminder that all pieces are yet to fall in place.
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Revolution, replete with debutants, tried to take the game away, while Nashville relied on what it does best, defensive solidity and patience. No one scored in the end, but it felt like one moment could have turned the whole thing around.
A close game with flashes of brilliance
The opening half was exactly what one could anticipate, one side trying to apply its style of play while the other waited for the other team to commit a blunder. New England Revolution controlled more possession, passed around the ball, and searched for openings but couldn't penetrate the defense of Nashville.
Ignatius Ganago had a go at Joe Willis to begin with, forcing the Nashville 'keeper into making a save in the 24th minute. At the other end of the field, Revolution debutant Leo Campana also saw some action, but was well- marshaled by the defense.
It was a battle for each inch of the field. Nashville, with the home-field advantage, did not play any dumb risks and was happy to sit back and wait for an opportunity to present itself. Revolution tested its new cast, seeking chemistry that still has to develop.
New England pressures, but Nashville stands firm
If the first half was a stalemate, New England sought to dictate the pace of the game in the second. The addition of Ilay Feingold at left-back did bring some creativity, and he came within inches of scoring in the 76th minute when his shot cleared the crossbar.
Backline Revolution also performed at its best. Brayan Ceballos and Mamadou Fofana performed securely, guaranteeing the club secured a shutout when exiting GEODIS Park. Keeper Aljaz Ivacic made three massive saves and asserted himself confidently, showing himself worthy of his number one man positioning.
On Nashville's part, the lack of creativity in attack was evident. The team was more interested in not losing than in winning, something that can become an issue as the season progresses if they do not become more attacking-minded.
Carles Gil and the New Revolution
Midfielder Carles Gil wore the captain's armband and, in addition to having his 150th MLS regular-season start in the bank, was the fulcrum guiding New England's midfield. Supporting him were Jackson Yueill, who had two shots taken on goal during his Revolution debut, and club first-time starters Luca Langoni and Alhassan Yusuf.
Head coach Caleb Porter only made one substitute, bringing in winger Luis Díaz in the 77th minute. Does that show he believes in his starting eleven, or does it show there is a lack of quality on the bench? The answer will be shown in the next few games.
Does Nashville SC not have ambition?
Once more, Nashville SC proved it has a strong defense. The problem is, not conceding goals doesn't win matches. The side couldn't turn possession into real threats, and this would be an alarming problem if there is no improvement in the attacking department. The coach, B.J. Callaghan, understands his team, but the lack of attacking venom could be too costly in tough matches.