MLS Soccer Team of the Matchday: CF Montréal and Seattle Sounders Keep Momentum

Thursday, 3 October 2024, 05:00

MLS Soccer showcases a thrilling Team of the Matchday with CF Montréal and Seattle Sounders maintaining their momentum in crucial matchups. CF Montréal's impressive victory propelled them above the playoff line, while Seattle continues their solid form. Read on to discover standout performances from various teams.

MLS Soccer Team of the Matchday: Momentum Builds

Teams are fiercely competing as the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs approach, with many looking to gather positive momentum towards the end of the season. Two teams, CF Montréal and Seattle Sounders FC, emerged strongly from Matchday 36, maintaining five-game unbeaten streaks (4W-0L-1D).

CF Montréal’s Resurgence

Josef Martínez was pivotal in CF Montréal's 2-1 victory against Atlanta United, scoring twice to elevate his team to eighth place in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

Seattle Sounders’ Consistency

Seattle Sounders now ranks third in the Western Conference, largely thanks to midfielder Albert Rusnák, who contributed 1 goal and 2 assists in a dominant 3-0 win over Vancouver Whitecaps FC.

Unstoppable Inter Miami

Following their recent Supporters' Shield triumph, Inter Miami CF remains unbeaten in nine matches, with Lionel Messi's contributions leading to a 3-2 win at the Columbus Crew and securing the top spot for the regular season.

D.C. United’s Playoff Dreams

Despite a tumultuous season, Gabriel Pirani’s injury-time brace secured a thrilling 4-3 win at Nashville SC, keeping D.C. United's playoff aspirations alive.

Impressive Individual Performances

LA Galaxy's Riqui Puig also made waves, netting two goals in a 3-1 victory, while Karol Swiderski ignited a 4-3 win for Charlotte FC against Chicago Fire FC. Defensively, John Tolkin, Erik Sviatchenko, and Mitja Ilenič shone with critical goals for their teams.

Key Goalkeeping

Brad Stuver of Austin FC secured their playoff hopes with an outstanding performance, recording 11 saves in their 1-0 victory over Portland Timbers.

Team of the Matchday Lineup

Brad Stuver (ATX)
John Tolkin (RBNY)
Erik Sviatchenko (HOU)
Mitja Ilenič (NYC)
Riqui Puig (LA)
Hernán López (SJ)
Gabriel Pirani (DC)
Albert Rusnák (SEA)
Lionel Messi (MIA)
Josef Martínez (MTL)
Karol Swiderski (CLT)

Coach: Tata Martino (MIA)

Bench: Dayne St. Clair (MIN), Coco Carrasquilla (HOU), Santiago Rodríguez (NYC), Hany Mukhtar (NSH), Pep Biel (CLT), Lewis Morgan (RBNY), Denis Bouanga (LAFC), Gabriel Pec (LA), Luis Muriel (ORL)

Audi Goals Drive Progress

MLS Academies play a critical role in cultivating talent across North America. Audi's Goals Drive Progress initiative invests $1 million yearly to support MLS youth academies, contributing $200 for every goal scored this season.

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.