U.S. MNT. Sporting KC. Three days of nationally televised games. What more could you ask for this weekend?
With a heavy dose of American soccer from Friday to Sunday, the three nationally televised games could stir up an already hectic MLS table. Here’s what you need to know about each match.
Orlando City FC vs Atlanta United FC| 6 p.m. CT Friday, ESPN & ESPN Deportes
Orlando City is hoping to bounce back following a disappointing 3-1 home loss to a piping hot Toronto FC team two weeks ago. For Atlanta, this also marks the club’s first match since the Gold Cup break. This southern showdown features two clubs with 30 points in the Eastern Conference standings, so the result is sure to create some turmoil in a tight conference race.
Minnesota United FC vs New York Red Bulls | 3 p.m. CT Saturday, ESPN & ESPN Deportes
Prior to the kickoff of the U.S. MNT Gold Cup semifinal match, Minnesota United FC (5-11-4) and New York Red Bulls (9-8-2) are set for an interconference meeting. Saturday will mark the inaugural match between the Loons and Red Bulls. Minnesota is led by forward Christian Ramirez, whose 10 goals are tied for fifth in MLS this season. His job won’t be easy, as the Red Bulls boast a 6-1-0 record in their last seven matches across all competitions.
Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs Portland Timbers | 5:30 p.m. CT Sunday, FS1 & FOX Deportes
Sunday’s nationally televised feature showcases a strong duel by the Pacific, as Vancouver Whitecaps FC (8-7-3) are set to host Portland Timbers (7-8-6) for a chance to shake up an already tight Western Conference. Vancouver and Portland sit at fourth and fifth place respectively in the standings, but both clubs have totaled 27 points on the year. Portland will be attempting to recover from an ugly 4-1 loss this past Wednesday to Real Salt Lake, but it won’t be easy against a Vancouver team that has only lost one of its last six home matches.
