In the last round of matches in Major League Soccer before Leagues Cup 2023, 14 games will take place. Here’s our preview of four key matchups, including both conferences’ top sides.
FC Cincinnati vs. Nashville SC
Eastern Conference leaders Cincinnati will welcome a Nashville side who have dropped in form of late, but, led by reigning MVP Hany Mukhtar, remain dangerous. The hosts had also hit the skids of late, by their high standards, but impressed on the road with a victory over New York Red Bulls in midweek.
Philadelphia Union vs. New York City FC
The Union will welcome and NYCFC side who are on an eight-match unbeaten run, but remain outside the playoff positions, having drawn in seven of those matches.The hosts had struggled in the month of June, losing against San Jose Earthquakes and Atlanta United FC, but got back to winning ways against Nashville on Wednesday and will look to solidify their position as a contender ahead of Leagues Cup.
St. Louis CITY SC vs. Inter Miami CF
The hosts had a three-match winning streak snapped by Los Angeles Football Club in the week, but remain atop the Western Conference. They’ll look to recover from that defeat against a Miami side who have struggled at times this season but have drawn each of their last three matches.
Seattle Sounders FC vs. FC Dallas
Despite defeat to San Jose in the week, Seattle remain just three points off top spot in the Western Conference and will be looking to keep pressure on the top sides against a formidable FC Dallas side. With the United States’ elimination from the Concacaf Gold Cup, the visitors could be able to call on Paul Arriola and leading scorer Jesús Ferreira, making this match one of the weekend’s more compelling.
