Two epic Cavan Sullivan goals, Nashville’s edge, and the biggest storylines of Matchday 26

MLS Matchday 26 featured 15 matches with all 30 teams in action and delivered several decisive results for the standings and title races. Beyond the packed schedule, one name stood out above the rest and captured the attention of fans across the continent: Cavan Sullivan.

As reported by mlssoccer, the 16-year-old Philadelphia Union talent scored two goals and provided an assist in the emphatic 5-0 win over San Diego FC, extending the dazzling personal form that has put him at the center of the conversation — even around the US national team roster Mauricio Pochettino is set to announce for the international window. Sullivan has contributed in extraordinary fashion in recent weeks, with numbers that compare with the biggest names and have raised expectations around him.

In the week’s most high-profile match, Nashville SC and Inter Miami drew 2-2 in a duel between the table leaders and a strong challenger. Sam Surridge opened the scoring for Miami, Lionel Messi netted his 19th goal of the season to restore hope, but Surridge equalized again in second-half stoppage time after a scramble in the box. As a result, Nashville’s lead over its chasers in the Supporters’ Shield race shrank, though it remains considerable.

One of the weekend’s most dramatic matches was played at TQL Stadium, where FC Cincinnati and Charlotte FC finished 3-3 after a stoppage-time equalizer from Kévin Denkey. The Cincinnati coach expressed frustration over the dropped points, while the club has struggled defensively, conceding 12 goals in its last three matches for a season total of around 59. According to various media reports and the player himself, the team has terminated the contract of defender Matt Miazga, who had struggled with recurring injuries.

The weekend’s surprise came from Sporting Kansas City, which defeated LAFC 3-1. André Luiz scored his first MLS goal, while Taylor Calheira and teammates secured the win; goalkeeper Stefan Cleveland was decisive with seven important saves. The result comes at a moment when LAFC is going through a difficult spell, in contrast to SKC’s positive development as it takes advantage of being undervalued in the market.

Orlando City continued its solid run with two wins in a week, with Antoine Griezmann once again decisive, helping the team to a 3-0 win over Toronto FC and earlier a 3-2 win over Atlanta United. Griezmann has become a key factor in attack, while Justin Ellis keeps contributing with assists that are already paying dividends for the Lions.

St. Louis CITY SC kept up its positive rhythm with a 4-2 win over Minnesota United, extending its unbeaten run to 16 matches in all competitions. Carlo Holse and Rafa Navarro made significant contributions to the success, as the team prepares for the US Open Cup semifinal against Colorado, hoping to reach the final of the oldest trophy in the United States.

Around the other fields, Austin FC earned an important 2-1 away win over Vancouver, with two highly efficient strikes from Christian Ramírez. New York City FC also won 2-0 at altitude against Real Salt Lake, where goalkeeper Matt Freese was decisive with a double save that preserved the result at key moments.

All in all, Matchday 26 showcased young players rising to the stage and teams hitting form for the decisive phase of the season. According to mlssoccer, these developments could have a direct impact on the race for the standings and on squad composition for upcoming international windows.