As the MLS season progresses, teams are jockeying for position in the latest Power Rankings, reflecting a blend of statistical analysis, recent form, and expert insights.
With Matchday 5 in the books, it’s time to assess who’s on the rise and who’s facing a downturn in fortunes across the league’s 29 clubs.
MLS Power Rankings 2024 Post Gameweek 5
Here’s the breakdown:
1. Columbus Crew – Previous Ranking: 1
Experiencing their first defeat of the season might typically signal a downturn for most teams in the power rankings. However, the Columbus Crew defy conventional expectations. Despite a 2-0 loss on the road (clouded by refereeing controversies), the Crew’s established prowess and consistent performance data keep them firmly atop the rankings.
2. FC Cincinnati – Previous Ranking: 3
The intrigue lies in observing how the integration of five new starters into Pat Noonan’s favoured lineup unfolds. However, the standout narrative for FC Cincinnati centers around Lucho Acosta’s stellar performances. Acosta’s knack for shining in close encounters was evident once again as he secured the solitary goal in his team’s 1-0 triumph over NYCFC.
3. New York Red Bulls – Previous Ranking: 6
A commanding 4-0 victory over Inter Miami certainly catches the eye. However, it’s essential to acknowledge the circumstances surrounding this win, with Lionel Messi’s absence due to injury and the international break affecting player availability on both sides. Nonetheless, the New York Red Bulls bounced back emphatically from their previous 3-0 defeat against the Crew, signaling a resurgence in form.
4. Inter Miami CF – Previous Ranking: 2
While Inter Miami CF remains a force to be reckoned with when operating at full capacity, their recent performance against RBNY showcased vulnerabilities. Hindered by absences and lacking full strength, the team faced challenges. Looking ahead, concerns linger regarding the depth within Tata Martino’s squad, particularly as the summer approaches.
5. LAFC – Previous Ranking: 13
In a resounding display of dominance, LAFC delivered a statement victory with a commanding 5-0 triumph over Nashville SC. The emphatic win not only halted a streak of three consecutive scoreless weeks but also showcased the formidable prowess of Dénis Bouanga & Co. This explosive performance serves as a potent reminder of the sheer talent and potency residing within LAFC’s ranks.
6. LA Galaxy – Previous Ranking: 9
With a formidable offensive display, the LA Galaxy’s attacking prowess is proving to be one of the most potent in MLS. Demonstrating consistency, they’ve notched three goals in three of their last four matches, notably in their recent come-from-behind victory against SKC. While defensive vulnerabilities persist and there are concerns in the buildup phase, the Galaxy’s relentless firepower in the final third renders them a force to be reckoned with.
7. Philadelphia Union – Previous Ranking: 7
Despite facing absences, including three starters in central midfield and goalkeeper Andre Blake due to international duties, the Philadelphia Union showcased resilience by clinching their first victory of the season against the Portland Timbers. With each passing match, the memory of their disappointing 6-0 defeat to Pachuca in the Concacaf Champions Cup fades further into the background.
8. Minnesota United – Previous Ranking: 8
With a weekend off, Minnesota United capitalized on the break as new manager Eric Ramsay utilized the time for additional training sessions, focusing notably on star No. 10 Emanuel Reynoso.
9. Real Salt Lake – Previous Ranking: 5
Real Salt Lake secured a crucial 2-1 victory over Vancouver, with seventeen-year-old left winger Fidel Barajas playing a pivotal role by providing both assists for his team. Barajas’s standout performance underscores his status as one of the top young talents in MLS, drawing interest from both the Mexican and United States federations.
10. CF Montréal – Previous Ranking: 10
With a bye over the weekend, Laurent Courtois’ squad had a brief respite before continuing their road trip, with two games remaining before returning to Montreal. Thus far, CF Montréal has surpassed expectations significantly, showcasing commendable performances.
11. Atlanta United FC – Previous Ranking: 4
Atlanta United FC’s offensive potency appears diminished in the absence of Thiago Almada, a factor that has consistently impacted their performance. This dependency was evident once again in their recent 2-0 defeat to Toronto FC on the road. The availability of Almada remains a defining factor in every match for Atlanta United.
12. Houston Dynamo – Previous Ranking: 11
Despite grappling with an ongoing injury crisis, the Houston Dynamo secured a morale-boosting last-minute 1-0 victory on the road against Colorado. Additionally, the return of Sebastián Ferreira to the field serves as a source of encouragement for the team.
13. Sporting Kansas City – Previous Ranking: 12
In their recent 3-2 loss to the Galaxy, Peter Vermes adapted to absences by shifting away from his traditional 4-3-3 formation to a 4-2-3-1 setup for Sporting Kansas City. This tactical adjustment allowed for the exciting inclusion of both Alan Pulido and Willy Agada on the field simultaneously, offering a promising variation for a team that has encountered difficulties in finding the net.
14. D.C. United – Previous Ranking: 17
D.C. United secured a valuable point on the road with a 2-2 draw against St. Louis City, thanks in part to Christian Benteke finding the back of the net. Under Troy Lesesne’s guidance, the team has displayed notable progress in their tactical development, surpassing initial expectations for this stage of the season.
15. Vancouver Whitecaps – Previous Ranking: 14
Vancouver Whitecaps’ shift away from the successful 3-5-2 formation to a 3-4-3 setup has disrupted their attacking cohesion. Despite being outplayed by RSL, the team struggled to find their rhythm and balance in the match.
16. Charlotte FC – Previous Ranking: 18
Charlotte FC’s victory over Columbus, albeit influenced by the early yellow card for the Crew, showcased promising signs for Dean Smith’s side. Notably, 23-year-old striker Patrick Agyemang made a significant impact in the attacking third, proving to be a difference-maker for Charlotte.
17. Orlando City – Previous Ranking: 19
Orlando City secured their maiden victory of the season with a convincing 2-0 triumph over Austin FC. The team’s offensive prowess came to life as Nico Lodeiro, Martín Ojeda, and Luis Muriel orchestrated fluid attacking movements in the final third, signaling a promising sign for Orlando’s attacking potential.
18. St. Louis City SC – Previous Ranking: 21
St. Louis City SC displayed resilience in their recent match, surrendering a lead in the first half but rallying back with a penalty kick equalizer in the second. However, Bradley Carnell’s squad continues to struggle with maintaining consistency throughout a standard 90-minute game, highlighting areas for improvement.
19. Portland Timbers – Previous Ranking: 22
Despite facing a loss against Philadelphia, Portland Timbers’ new signing Jonathan Rodríguez made an immediate impact. The veteran forward, who recently joined as a Designated Player from Club América in Liga MX, showcased his quality by exploiting spaces effectively throughout the match. Rodríguez’s presence on the field promises to elevate Portland’s performance, indicating positive prospects for the team despite the defeat.
20. Toronto FC – Previous Ranking: 24
Toronto FC secured a crucial three points in their recent outing, bringing a glimmer of joy to the faces of their fans. However, the loss of Lorenzo Insigne to another injury casts a shadow over the team’s triumph, posing a significant setback for Toronto FC moving forward.
21. FC Dallas – Previous Ranking: 20
With a bye this past weekend, FC Dallas had a brief respite from the action. However, their need for improvement across all lines of the field remains apparent.
22. Seattle Sounders – Previous Ranking: 16
Seattle Sounders, typically known for their defensive solidity under Brian Schmetzer, faced a rare lapse in their recent match against San Jose. Conceding three goals in a regular-season game for the first time since June 2023, the Sounders encountered uncharacteristic defensive frailty, highlighting an area of concern for the team.
23. Chicago Fire – Previous Ranking: 23
Chicago Fire’s performance in their 1-1 draw against the Revs showed little sign of progress. The team’s stagnant display suggests they currently belong in 12th place in the Eastern Conference standings.
24. Nashville SC – Previous Ranking: 15
Nashville SC suffered their largest defeat in club history with a resounding 5-0 loss to LAFC. Despite grappling with injuries, Gary Smith’s side faces deeper issues that even a fully fit squad may not entirely resolve.
25. New York City FC – Previous Ranking: 26
New York City FC’s struggle with consistency persists, as evidenced by their subdued performance in a 1-0 loss to FC Cincinnati following their first win of the season.
Also Read: Inter Miami vs New York City Preview, Prediction and Betting Tips | MLS
26. Colorado Rapids – Previous Ranking: 25
Under Chris Armas’ leadership, the Colorado Rapids have yet to demonstrate significant tactical innovation, placing increased reliance on their players to influence matches. However, the team’s current talent level may not be sufficient to effectively execute this approach, adding pressure on the players to deliver results.
27. San Jose Earthquakes – Previous Ranking: 29
Signs of improvement emerged as San Jose Earthquakes secured a notable 3-2 victory over the Sounders. Niko Tsakiris, recently returned from injury, showcased his talent with an impressive performance. The 18-year-old injected pace and quality into the midfield, revitalizing what had been a sluggish area for the team.
28. New England Revolution – Previous Ranking: 27
Continuing to struggle, the New England Revolution find themselves among the three MLS teams yet to secure a win this season. Despite this, they managed to salvage a point in their recent match against Chicago, providing a small consolation amidst their winless streak.
29. Austin FC – Previous Ranking: 28
Austin FC faces significant challenges this season, evident in their struggles to generate offensive opportunities. A concerning statistic reveals that forty percent of their matches have concluded without a single shot from inside the box, highlighting the team’s dire situation as they navigate through the campaign.