There was no shortage of drama and excitement across Major League Soccer on Saturday and Sunday as the 2024 season moved into its third full gameweek.
Some familiar names are starting to climb the standings (see Atlanta United and Columbus Crew) while some others are exceeding pre-season predictions (see the Portland Timbers and Toronto FC). Here are five of the biggest storylines from the weekend in MLS.
By Graham Ruthven, MLS Expert
Inter Miami’s weaknesses exposed in home defeat to CF Montréal
Inter Miami suffered their first defeat of the season on Sunday as CF Montréal exposed some of the weaknesses that could undermine the Herons in 2024. While there is no doubting Inter Miami’s talent when everyone is available, their lack of depth when the likes of Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets are rested or on the bench – as was the case here – is a concern.
On top of this, CF Montréal were able to expose Inter Miami’s frailty when defending set pieces and the vulnerability of their defensive high line against opposition attackers with pace and a determination to get in behind. Tata Martino made his team selection with one eye on Wednesday’s CONCACAF Champions Cup match against Nashville, but it inadvertently highlighted some of his team’s issues.
Giorgos Giakoumakis’ finishing ability could make Atlanta United contenders
MLS isn’t exactly short of top quality centre-forwards, but few are on Giorgos Giakoumakis’ level. The Greek striker scored his first – and second and third – goal of the season in Atlanta United’s 4-1 demolition of the New England Revolution on Saturday, highlighting the finishing ability of a player who could make Gonzalo Pineda’s team genuine contenders this season.
There was more to Atlanta’s performance than just Giakoumakis’ hat trick. The hosts struggled to create much in the first half, but the second period saw Thiago Almada pick up space in between the lines and Dax McCarty show why he was signed by The Five Stripes to provide bite in central midfield. Giakoumakis, however, is Atlanta’s biggest difference-maker.
John Herdman is achieving the impossible by getting Toronto FC buy-in
Lorenzo Insigne’s winner for Toronto FC against Charlotte FC on Saturday was remarkable enough, but his celebration was possibly even more meaningful. Indeed, the Italian raced over to the touchline where he jumped into the arms of John Herdman. Insigne clashed with previous manager Bob Bradley last season, but he clearly has more time for Herdman.
This is significant because talent was never TFC’s problem. Instead, there was a lack of buy-in from the best players inside the BMO Field dressing room. Insigne and Federico Bernardeschi were expected to leave the club over the off-season, but the pair stayed and are clearly invested in Herdman’s project with Toronto FC unbeaten in three games to start 2024.
Duncan McGuire reminded everyone why he’s such an exciting talent
Had Blackburn Rovers correctly filed some paperwork, Duncan McGuire would currently be playing in the Championship. Instead, the 23-year-old is back at Orlando City after the breakdown of his January transfer to England. McGuire is in an awkward position, back at a club that had already replaced him by signing Luis Muriel, but Saturday saw the striker remind everyone of his incredible talent.
McGuire is a pure goalscorer. He has been likened to former Fulham and USA forward Brian McBride who also came through the American college system. Orlando have endured a challenging start to the new season, but with McGuire in the team they have an elite level finisher to help turn things around. Both goals against Minnesota United highlighted this.
Eric Ramsay will take over a Minnesota United team with momentum
Against all odds, Minnesota United have enjoyed an extremely positive start to the season. Saturday’s 3-2 away win over Orlando City means The Loons have claimed seven points from their first three matches with an interim head coach – Cameron Knowles – in charge. New permanent manager Eric Ramsay will take over a team with momentum.
The former Manchester United coach will have plenty to work with when he arrives at Allianz Field. Teemu Pukki was at his opportunistic best as he bagged a brace against Orlando while Bongokuhle Hlongwane – a breakout star in 2023 – raced through to net a stoppage time winner on his season debut. Minnesota are without their best player (Emanuel Reynoso) and have started the season without a permanent manager. None of it has mattered.
(Images from IMAGO)
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