NWSL: KANSAS CITY CURRENT 2, GOTHAM FC 1
GOAL verdict: KC Current’s unbeaten run stretches back to early May, and they’re currently riding a three-game winning streak - a worrying sign for Gotham FC. The visitors have been in solid form, unbeaten in league play since mid-August, but this clash looks set to favor KC Current. Even with the race for the top spot already decided, this one should only go one way.
MLS: INTER MIAMI 3, ATLANTA UNITED FC 2
GOAL verdict: A playoff spot secured, things are looking bright again for Inter Miami, who seem set to finish the season inside the top three. That’s despite winning just once in their last three matches, though their overall record remains strong with only two losses in their last seven league outings. It’s a worrying picture for Atlanta United, who have just one win in their last five and are currently on a four-game winless run. The Herons will hold the upper hand in this matchup.
MLS: VANCOUVER WHITECAPS 3, ORLANDO CITY FC 1
GOAL verdict: Both teams have already booked their playoff spots and are now simply battling for position, but there’s still a clear favorite. Vancouver are unbeaten since their loss to San Jose in early August, while Orlando have drawn three and lost one of their last five league matches. That form doesn’t offer much optimism for Orlando heading into this clash, though sitting seventh in the Eastern Conference, they could hold their spot if other results go their way — even if this one doesn’t.
USL CHAMPIONSHIP: CHARLESTON BATTERY 2, COLORADO SPRINGS SWITCHBACKS 1
GOAL verdict: Charleston Battery have already secured their playoff spot, while the Colorado Springs Switchbacks sit precariously in seventh, clinging to their postseason hopes. The Battery are unbeaten in their last four matches, showing solid form, while the Switchbacks have managed just one win in their last five. The odds aren’t in their favor, but soccer has its surprises. Still, Charleston look the stronger side.
MLS: SEATTLE SOUNDERS 2, REAL SALT LAKE 1
GOAL verdict: Despite enduring a four-game winless run, Seattle ended their slump with a narrow 1-0 victory over the Portland Timbers. That result should give them a much-needed boost, even with midfielder Albert Rusnák suspended after his red card. Real Salt Lake, meanwhile, have been inconsistent, recording three wins and two losses in their last five matches. It could turn into a close affair, but Seattle seem the more likely side to come out on top.
MLS: DALLAS 3, LA GALAXY 1 FC
GOAL verdict: It’s been a nightmare season for the reigning MLS Cup champions, who currently hold the worst record in the league and now face a Dallas side already bound for the playoffs. Dallas have been in excellent form, unbeaten since late July, and their recent win over the Galaxy only highlights the contrast between the two teams. The Galaxy, meanwhile, have managed just one victory in their last five matches. Not much points in their favor here.
