USMNT MLS Recap (October 28): Major shake-up in wild card races, Charlotte poised to snatch home-field advantage
Just over one week separates us from Decision Day. Which clubs are set to take part in the frenzy, and which clubs will have to watch from the sidelines (for better or for worse)? More importantly, how are USMNT players influencing the proceedings? Let's take a look at some of those clubs below.
New York City FC pulls off last-gasp victory, ends Atlanta United's playoff hopes
After a string of draws, New York City FC might be on the verge of reviving their playoff hopes. Despite being on course for another draw, NYCFC scored a stoppage-time goal to ensure all three points against Atlanta and remain within a win of the final playoff spot, while helping eliminate Atlanta from playoff contention. Matt Freese made four saves for New York City while conceding just one goal.
Josh Sargent leads another Toronto FC comeback
Toronto FC has arguably been the best team in MLS this season when it comes to putting big comebacks together. They did it again on Wednesday against D.C. United, scoring two second-half goals to erase a 1-0 deficit and record a massive 2-1 win.
Josh Sargent scored the game-winner for Toronto FC, while Djordje Mihailovic was taken off after 89 minutes. Sean Johnson played the full 90 minutes for D.C. United, though he did not record a single save.
RBNY slips up in USMNT-heavy clash
Red Bull New York has now lost control of a playoff spot. Despite erasing a 2-0 deficit, the club could not secure a result, losing 3-2 to the New England Revolution. USMNT youngster Julian Hall led a rally, scoring in the 64th minute. His USMNT teammate Peyton Miller recorded an assist on the game-winning goal. Brooklyn Raines played the full match, while Matt Turner recorded six saves despite giving up a pair of goals. Adri Mehmeti recorded a full 90-minute performance for Red Bull New York.
Without Cavan Sullivan, Philadelphia clinches playoff spot
It wasn't the greatest effort, but the Philadelphia Union did what they needed to do against Nashville SC in a scoreless draw. Cavan Sullivan was absent for the Union, though Neil Pierre played the full contest. Frankie Westfield was brought into the contest in the 68th minute. For Nashville, goalkeeper Brian Schwake recorded yet another clean sheet. That said, he was only able to make one save during the contest.
Damion Downs starts as St. Louis City's league struggles continue against Portland Timbers
At this point, St. Louis City might simply be looking to get into the playoffs and go from there. A 3-2 loss to Portland on Wednesday has them on the verge of losing home-field advantage in the first round. The Timbers had this game wrapped up in 50 minutes, even if a late St. Louis City rally made it close. Damion Downs started the game for St. Louis City, though he was brought out of the match after the first half.
Justin Ellis booked in draw with Fire
Chicago Fire was incredibly lucky to escape their contest against Orlando City with a point. The club went down 2-0 in the opening 35 minutes of the contest. But two goals in 12 minutes helped to secure a draw. Goalkeeper Chris Brady made only one save against Orlando City. Justin Ellis played 77 minutes for Orlando, picking up a yellow card.
Today's best reads
USMNT MLS Recap (October 24): Nashville secures Supporters Shield, St. Louis continues to slip
What to know about USMNT December camp and Jamaica friendly
A USMNT fan's guide to the U.S. Open Cup Final
Neil Pierre signs contract extension after positive post-World Cup period
USMNT in Serie A matchday 9 recap: Midweek matches unkind to Americans
