MLS is an entertaining and exciting domestic league in the United States that nurtures homegrown talent, brings in huge stars from other countries, and gives veteran players a chance to play out their illustrious career at a high level.
During match week 12, there were tons of highs and lows, surprises and shocks, goals and assists, and goal line clearances that deserve to be recognized.
MLS Matchday 12: All You Need to Know
Rivalry week ⚔️🏟️#ORLvMIA 🔜⏳ pic.twitter.com/wc5eLXt6YL
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) May 13, 2024
The first important thing to note when it comes to the 12th week of games in the MLS is that Messi is still truly the GOAT of football. Although he has aged, he hasn’t slowed down in terms of performance, goals, and captivating audiences. He was voted the Major League Soccer Player of the Matchday this week for the 2024 season due to his incredible stats and impact on the league.
The incredible striker broke several records in the MLS during his first year on Beckham’s Inter Miami team, like recording five assists in one match, finding the back of the net six times in one match, and recording ten goals and ten assists in one season for Inter Miami CF. Plus, he was the third player in the league’s history to assist or score a goal in the first eight matches of the season – tied only by the USA-legend Clint Dempsey and Cobi Jones.
Shocker In Toronto
Next, Toronto suffered a surprising home loss to New York City. Toronto had a whopping 16 shots and 11 on frame during the game but couldn’t put more than two shots past the New York City shot-stopper. New York City had five shots on frame, and three found the back of the net. Bernardeschi received a red card for Toronto in the 90+9 minute, which could see him suffer the consequences later in the season.
Orlando City vs. Philadelphia had the same scoreline, with Orlando City providing another at-home upset for the Philly Union. Philadelphia scored in the 12th minute from Uhre, but Orlando City quickly recovered with a 21st-minute goal from McGuire. Luis Muriel proved to be the hero for City, scoring twice in two minutes to give Orlando the goals to win the match. With just four shots on frame, scoring three goals is an incredible feat.
The NY Red Bulls vs. New England match saw six goals in total, with the New York team coming out the victor, slotting four past the other team’s keeper. Similarly, D.C. United beat Atlanta United at home, with D.C.’s Christian Benteke scoring an amazing hat trick to put the team ahead after going 1-0 down in the 16th minute due to a penalty kick.
MLS Looking Forward
Currently, Philadelphia and Columbus are right on the edge of the final series play-offs. They will hope to move into the top seven spots if they hope to make the final series without worrying about post-season playoffs. New England and Chicago are in the bottom two spots, earning less than ten points on the year so far. They will have to get some wins under their belt and improve their form if they hope to make it out of the bottom of the table.
As of right now, it looks like Messi and Inter Miami could be fighting for one of the top spots in the league – exactly where the brilliant Argentine should be.
About the Author
Emma is an athlete and sports fan who currently plays professional soccer. Growing up, she reached a high level in track and field, distance running, and soccer on both club and university teams.
