The New England Revolution Could Shock Everyone in the MLS Playoffs

When a team stops being just a bunch of players and becomes a real family, some magical stuff can happen. And for the Revs, that might just turn their season around
Aug 24, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; New England Revolution forward Giacomo Vrioni (9) celebrates a win over the CF Montreal at Stade Saputo. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 24, 2024; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; New England Revolution forward Giacomo Vrioni (9) celebrates a win over the CF Montreal at Stade Saputo. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports / Eric Bolte-USA TODAY Sports
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The New England Revolution… If you’d told me a few months back that they'd be serious contenders in the playoffs, I probably would've laughed it off. But what we’re seeing in Foxborough right now is one of those rare moments when a team transforms in an almost mystical way, finding that perfect groove that can turn a mediocre season into something breathtaking. And you know what? It's happening right under our noses.

Let’s rewind real quick to their last match against CF Montréal. The Revs didn’t just win—they absolutely crushed the Canadians with a 5-0 scoreline that even the most die-hard Revs fan couldn't have seen coming. But here’s the thing, it’s not just about the score. It’s about what happened right after the final whistle.

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On the plane ride home, as everyone settled in, captain Carles Gil stood up and did something you don’t see every day. He grabbed the game ball and handed it to rookie Luca Langoni, who had just made his debut, scoring a goal and snagging an assist. Now, that’s a cool gesture on its own, but what came next really showed the heart of this team. Gil, with a cheeky grin, said something like, “Now, Luca’s gonna speak in Spanish, and Dylan [Borrero] will translate it into English!” The whole plane erupted in laughter. That moment captured the spirit of today’s Revs: a team that’s not just talented, but as close-knit as a family.

And that unity is their real ace in the hole for the playoffs. Let’s be real, talent alone doesn’t win championships. If it did, those mega-rich teams across the Atlantic would win everything all the time, right? What makes the difference in those clutch moments is chemistry, trust, and every player’s commitment to their teammates and the jersey they wear.

Coach Caleb Porter came on board at the start of the year with the tough job of overhauling a pretty lost squad. Now, eight months later, he can finally look at these guys and say, “These are my guys.” And it’s not just coach talk. Porter stood by his players, made the tough calls, sent packing those who weren’t vibing with the team, and above all, he showed he believes in this group. That’s powerful. Players can feel when a coach genuinely has their back, and that trust leads to results.

But you might be thinking, “Okay, so what? Is that enough to go far in the playoffs?” And I’m telling you, it just might be. We’re talking about a team that’s riding high on confidence, with a solid defense and an attack that’s starting to click. And don’t underestimate the power of that camaraderie. The vibe in the Revs’ locker room is as chill as a Sunday BBQ with friends. And that’s the kind of thing that can push a team to overcome adversity, to dig deep when their legs are begging for a break.

The MLS is no walk in the park, and the playoffs are a minefield where any mistake can be costly. But honestly, I wouldn’t bet against this team right now. Don’t get me wrong—it’s not all sunshine and rainbows in Foxborough. Porter didn’t get here by being nice or shying away from tough decisions. He’s said it himself—some players had to go for the team to find its way.

So, if you’re not paying attention to the Revs yet, it’s time to wake up. They’ve got the talent, the chemistry, and, most importantly, a reason to play—and they play damn well. Who knows how far that can take them?

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