Inter Miami's Title, Bouanga, Playoffs Spots, and a Thrashing: MLS Round Recap

This MLS round had everyone buzzing! Inter Miami is just one step away from clinching the Supporters' Shield. But while all eyes were on them, other stories were unfolding across the country. So, let’s break down everything that went down this round!

Inter Miami took another step in their title chase with a thrilling draw against Charlotte FC. Star of the night? Who else but Messi! With his 15th goal of the season, he once again proved why he’s the greatest player in soccer history. But hold on, the title isn’t in the bag just yet. Next up is Columbus Crew, and a win there could seal Inter Miami's place in MLS history.

Follow MLS Multiplex on X (Twitter).

On the flip side, if there’s one team flexing its muscles, it's LAFC. Their victory over FC Cincinnati not only secured a playoff spot but also put Denis Bouanga in the spotlight. The guy came on in the second half and left his mark with a goal. You can't help but admire Bouanga’s hunger for victory. Coach Cherundolo even joked that Bouanga was dying to play, getting all worked up about not starting the game. And man, when a player’s this eager to make his mark, you know he's thirsty for trophies. With 18 goals this season, he’s hot on Benteke’s heels in the Golden Boot race. Speaking of Benteke...

D.C. United’s striker, Christian Benteke, also grabbed the spotlight this round. The guy is on fire, scoring two more goals in the draw against Columbus Crew, bringing his tally to 21 for the season. Yep, 21! He’s now leading the Golden Boot race, but to him, that's just a side note. Benteke’s main concern is getting D.C. United back into the playoffs, something that hasn't happened since 2019. After the game, Troy Lesesne didn't hold back on the praise, highlighting Benteke’s commitment to the team. If there's anyone who can carry this squad into the playoffs, it’s him.

While some celebrate wins and others battle for titles, St. Louis CITY SC already has their sights set on the next season. Even though they’re out of playoff contention, they showed some serious grit by beating Sporting Kansas City 3-1 in the famous Midwest Derby. They've had a rough 2024, with injuries and squad changes, but they're already planting seeds for 2025. Cedric Teuchert, who scored his fifth goal in seven games, is one of their bright hopes for the future.

Now, let’s talk about NYCFC’s demolition of the NY Red Bulls. New York City FC annihilated the New York Red Bulls 5-1 in the Hudson River Derby. Can you imagine the humiliation of losing by five in a rivalry game? That’s exactly how NYCFC stamped their ticket to the playoffs. Shoutouts to Maxi Moralez and Alonso Martínez, who stole the show and led the team to its biggest derby win in franchise history. This win was more than just three points; it was a statement. They’re ready for the playoffs.

Orlando City also secured their playoff spot for the fifth straight time, beating FC Dallas 3-1. They started the season slow, but they've picked up steam at the right time and are now brimming with confidence. Orlando City isn’t just aiming for a spot; they’re gunning for a high seeding to secure home-field advantage in the playoffs. Facundo Torres stood out, notching his 17th goal of the season, tying with Cyle Larin as the club's all-time top scorer. The team’s riding a magical wave, and with this winning streak, it wouldn't surprise anyone if they made a deep playoff run.

As the regular season draws to a close, Inter Miami fights to clinch the title, Bouanga and Benteke battle for the Golden Boot, and teams scramble for favorable playoff positions. And let’s not forget the derby beatdowns, the surprising comebacks, and the twists and turns that make MLS a league that’s anything but predictable.

Soccer in the United States is on an electrifying rise. With international stars like Messi, Suárez, Alba, Reus, Giroud, Llorris, and others setting the tone, the stories just keep getting more intense and thrilling. Inter Miami has the chance to make history this Wednesday, but LAFC, NYCFC, Orlando City, and so many others are gearing up for the playoffs.