1. WHAT WOULD A WIN MEAN FOR THE UNION?
We’re now just one day away from the US Open Cup final (Wednesday, 7 pm ET, ESPN2 & UDN) between Sporting Kansas City and the Philadelphia Union, who will be looking for their first-ever trophy after falling just short in last year's final. Just what would winning the trophy mean to Philadelphia? Click here to find out.
2. BESLER WANTS ANOTHER CUP
US national team defender Matt Besler would certainly like to bring home a second US Open Cup in four years for Sporting Kansas City, with the SKC Designated Player acknowledging that a place in the CONCACAF Champions League would also be a nice bonus. Sporting KC head coach Peter Vermes also offered his own preview of the game on the latest ExtraTime Radio.
3. IS THIS CANADA’S YEAR?
Despite the Vancouver Whitecaps' minor hiccup last week, the team remains among the legitimate contenders for the Supporters' Shield. Combine that with the fact that both the Montreal Impact and Toronto FC could qualify for the playoffs and some are asking: Is this Canada’s year in MLS?
4. WHY MARSCH GOT SENT MARCHING
It was salt in the wound during the New York Red Bulls' tough 5-2 home loss to Orlando City SC: head coach Jesse Marsch getting sent to the stands, dismissed by referee Jorge Gonzalez. What exactly did the Red Bulls boss do to get his marching orders?
5. RSL STILL FIGHTING
While Sunday’s defeat may have left Real Salt Lake on the cusp of missing the MLS playoffs for the first time in eight years, the team isn't giving up just yet. Captain Kyle Beckerman said it best, asserting “we’re going to keep fighting until the end.”
6. SHIFTING SHIPP
Brian Bliss may only be in charge of the Chicago Fire on an interim basis, but it seems he's already developed some ideas about what would work best for the team, including identifying what he believes to be Harry Shipp’s best position for the Eastern Conference stragglers.
7. NYCFC FIND THEIR FORM
It may have taken a while, but it looks as though New York City FC have finally found their rhythm, with Frank Lampard and Andrea Pirlo both identifying and embracing their own roles for the expansion side. Their recent surge has proven positive, but will it be enough to steal a playoff spot?
8. BREK SHEA STAYS CONFIDENT
Orlando City face perhaps the biggest game of their brief MLS history on Saturday, when the 7th-place Lions host 6th-place Montreal. Brek Shea made clear in recent comments that he thinks his side can come out on top, while also speaking about potential future USMNT call-ups and a preseason premonition about rookie teammate Cyle Larin.
9. TORONTO’S ACHILLES' HEEL?
Toronto FC may be on the verge of their first-ever playoff appearance, but, should they reach the promised land, how will they fare? It doesn't hurt to have record-breaker Sebastian Giovinco in the fold, but some still have some concerns about the team.
10. JUST ENJOY IT
Didier Drogba has been on an absolute tear since arriving in MLS, notching seven goals in his first six games in Montreal. One writer has a message for fans of rival teams who might not be enjoying Drogba's run: Sit back, relax and enjoy the brilliance.
11. ARENA SETS THE STANDARD
Bruce Arena picked up the ‘Spirit of Courage’ award last week, recognition for the role he played in helping Robbie Rogers return to the field and establish himself as the first openly gay male athlete in North American professional sports. The LA Galaxy boss gave a heartfelt acceptance speech, talking about how coaches in every sport can be more accommodating.
12. A MAN IN DEMAND
Bob Bradley is reportedly getting some recognition for leading Stabaek towards a place in Europe, with fellow Norwegian club Molde FK -- who Bradley and Stabaek beat over the weekend -- reportedly approaching the ex-USMNT manager about their head coaching position. The news has prompted some worry amongst Stabaek fans.
13. A CANADIAN CALL-UP?
Has the first call-up for Canada’s friendly against Ghana already leaked? According to a report from BBC Sport, a Scottish Cup match involving Glasgow Rangers has been postponed due to international call-ups. One is Gedion Zelalem for the US U-23s. Another? Apparently Fraser Aird for Canada.
14. GUARDADO MAY STILL PLAY
It appears talk of Andres Guardado missing the CONCACAF Cup may have been premature, with the El Tri captain hustling to return from injury in time for the Oct. 10 USA-Mexico clash at the Rose Bowl. It looks like we’ve also got word on who will officiate the all-important playoff.
15. A MESSAGE FROM MICHAEL
Speaking of the CONCACAF Cup showdown, US captain Michael Bradley has a message about the match for all the American fans out there.
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