Assessing the race for the 2022 MLS Cup
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With all the major European leagues on hold for the summer, now feels like the perfect time to check in on Major League Soccer.
As we approach the halfway point in the 2022 MLS regular season, the race for the MLS Cup is heating up. But who are the frontrunners? And who could make a late run into the playoffs?
Let’s take a closer look at the bookmakers’ favorites.
New York City find themselves one point clear at the top of the Eastern Conference after losing just three of their 13 games this season. Better still, they boast the joint-best defensive record in the East.
The defending champions are currently enjoying an 11-game unbeaten streak in all competitions, winning each of their previous six outings. They have also kept five consecutive clean sheets.
Valentin Castellanos has already bagged 11 goals and five assists this term, putting himself in contention to defend the Golden Boot. If he carries on the way he’s going, NYCFC will continue to climb.
Not only do LAFC sit four points clear of second-place FC Dallas in the Western Conference, but they also sit three points ahead of New York City in the overall standings.
The Black & Gold have won more games than anyone else this year, securing nine victories in 14 outings. They are also the top scorers in the entire league, having netted 29 goals.
Former Arsenal forward Carlos Vela has chalked up six goals and three assists, while Cristian Arango has also netted six goals. The deadly duo could fire their side to MLS Cup glory.
Philadelphia are the only team to have lost just one of their MLS games this season. Having won six and drawn seven of their opening 14 matches, the Union find themselves one point behind NYCFC.
Granted, only six teams in the Easte have scored fewer goals than Philly this year. But no team has conceded fewer goals. What the U lack in attack, they more than make up for in defence.
New England made a slow start to the 2022 campaign, losing five of their first eight games. However, they avoided defeat in each of their next six to catapult themselves up the standings.
The Revs won the 2021 Supporters’ Shield in record-breaking style, claiming the most regular-season points in MLS history. Can they go one better and clinch the MLS Cup this year?
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