Ahead of a busy week of fixtures in Major League Soccer, including a midweek round on the Fourth of July, we’re taking a look at some of the key matchups taking place today and tomorrow. From a Cali Clasico to a battle between two of the east’s top teams, here’s all you need to know about the weekend’s biggest games:
FC Cincinnati-New England Revolution
Arguably the most important match this weekend in terms of the table, the hosts will put their perfect record at home on the line against a dangerous New England side. With Gustavo Bou back fit and Bobby Wood showing plenty of quality as well, the Revs enter the match in second place, albeit seven points back of the hosts.
Nashville SC-D.C. United
With the Revs facing that tough trip to Cincinnati, Nashville will look to move ahead of New England into second place should they slip up. Just a point back, Nashville have the league’s best defense this season, and will do their best to shut down a D.C. side who stunned Cincinnati at the weekend with a 3-0 win in the nation’s capital.
San Jose Earthquakes-LA Galaxy
The Cali Clasico returns for the second time this season, as the hosts will want revenge for a 2-1 loss in May. With Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez absent, the Galaxy may find this match tough going, but don’t count out either side in one of the league’s oldest and most bitter rivalries.
Atlanta United-Philadelphia Union
The only match of the weekend to be played on Sunday, the in-form Union head south on the back of a comprehensive win over Miami. Now fourth in the Eastern Conference, they’ll be looking at Saturday’s results and hoping to climb the table on the back of Saturday’s matches. Atlanta are a dangerous team as well, though, even without their Gold Cup absentees, and will be eager to get back to winning ways after a tough defeat to New York Red Bulls.
