We’re now past the halfway point of the Major League Soccer season and we’ve got a full slate of midweek action tonight with a dozen matches taking place across the country. Here’s our preview of four of the biggest games, from the Big Apple to Hollywood:
New York Red Bulls vs. Charlotte FC
The Red Bulls’ mini-revival under Troy Lesesne hit a bump in a 3-0 loss to Orlando City at the weekend, but they’ll be eager to put their opponents to the test, knowing a win would see them leapfrog Charlotte and potentially even end the round in the play-in positions. Charlotte, who were idle at the weekend, last played on the tenth, in a thrilling three-all draw against Seattle. If the visitors can find that sort of attacking form again, a busy evening of soccer could be off to an exciting start.
Houston Dynamo FC vs. San Jose Earthquakes
Dynamo will be brimming with confidence after following an impressive US Open Cup quarterfinal win with successive league victories over LAFC. After a pair of wins over what had been the league’s top team this season, Hector Herrera and company will welcome San Jose and in-form ‘keeper Daniel. The Brazilian has kept a clean sheet in three of his last four matches, and represents a big obstacle if Houston want to climb the table.
Austin FC vs. FC Dallas
It’s another episode of Copa Tejas in Austin – the hosts have had a rough go of things this season as they’ve struggled with injuries, but the form book goes out the window here in this rivalry match. Los Verdes know that a win here will move them into the playoff positions, while Dallas could push for top spot with the same.
Los Angeles Football Club vs. Seattle Sounders FC
The hosts sealed a dramatic win at the weekend, with a late goal from Carlos Vela easing them past hosts Sporting Kansas City. Vela and his teammates are back in action at home tonight against Seattle Sounders FC. The visitors are winless in their last three, but could move top of the Western Conference with a victory here.
