{"id":218003,"date":"2026-04-03T22:10:12","date_gmt":"2026-04-03T22:10:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/218003\/"},"modified":"2026-04-03T22:10:12","modified_gmt":"2026-04-03T22:10:12","slug":"rivalry-games-take-spotlight-as-inter-miami-open-new-stadium","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/218003\/","title":{"rendered":"Rivalry Games Take Spotlight as Inter Miami Open New Stadium"},"content":{"rendered":"<p id=\"inline-text-0\" class=\"mt-[18px] md:mt-0 mb-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"74\">The first international break of the 2026 MLS regular season is in the books, and 30 teams are set to return to league action on Saturday as the sprint towards the extended international break and the FIFA World Cup 2026 continues. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-1\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"77\">In the sixth full week of the regular season, the 15-match slate is highlighted by a Cascadia Cup clash between Vancouver Whitecaps and the Portland Timbers, while Inter Miami also debuts its new stadium\u2014Nu Stadium\u2014at home against Austin FC. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-2\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"7a\">This weekend features all matches on Saturday, with a step back from Sunday action. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-3\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"7d\">Here\u2019s what Sports Illustrated  predicts for the sixth week of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/mls\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">MLS<\/a> in 2026.<\/p>\n<p>Jump to:<a href=\"#inline-text-7\">Toronto FC vs. Colorado Rapids <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-16\">New England Revolution vs. CF Montr\u00e9al <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-24\">Real Salt Lake vs. Sporting Kansas City <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-33\">Atlanta United vs. Columbus Crew<\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-41\">Charlotte FC vs. Philadelphia Union <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-48\">D.C. United vs. FC Dallas <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-55\">Inter Miami vs. Austin FC <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-63\">New York City FC vs. St. Louis CITY SC<\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-71\">Red Bull New York vs. FC Cincinnati <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-79\">Chicago Fire FC vs. Nashville SC  <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-87\">Houston Dynamo vs. Seattle Sounders <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-94\">LAFC vs. Orlando City <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-102\">LA Galaxy vs. Minnesota United  <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-109\">San Jose Earthquakes vs. San Diego FC <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-116\">Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Portland Timbers <\/a><a href=\"#inline-text-125\">MLS Predictions: Matchday 6<\/a>Toronto FC vs. Colorado Rapids <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8g84mj94sx92hmm0.jpg\" alt=\"Djordje Mihailovic\" title=\"Djordje Mihailovic\" width=\"5735\" height=\"3823\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"7z\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Djordje Mihailovic faces his former club as Toronto FC hosts the Colorado Rapids. | Kevin Sousa-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4 Time: 1:00 p.m. ET \/ 10:00 a.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-10\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"86\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/toronto-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Toronto FC<\/a> has some wind back in its sails for the first time in years, riding a three-game unbeaten streak, with two wins in games against FC Cincinnati and Columbus Crew.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-11\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"89\">Led by manager Robin Fraser, the Reds enter this week\u2019s clash with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/colorado-rapids\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Colorado Rapids<\/a> in strong form, while taking on the third game in nine-straight matches at home leading into the 2026 World Cup.<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-12\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"8c\">All eyes will be on U.S. midfielder Djordje Mihailovic in this one, as the Toronto Designated Player plays his first game against his former club, after joining the Canadian side on an $8 million transfer last summer. At the same time, marquee signing Josh Sargent seeks his first goal for the Reds.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-13\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"8f\">Colorado heads north in strong form as well, with three wins from their last four matches, as they embrace a new season and manager, former Tottenham Hotspur assistant coach, Matt Wells. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-14\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"8i\">Prediction: Toronto FC 3\u20131 Colorado Rapids<\/p>\n<p>New England Revolution vs. CF Montr\u00e9al <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8w9wfp030x0wztgv.jpg\" alt=\"Luca Langoni\" title=\"Luca Langoni\" width=\"3086\" height=\"2057\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"8x\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Luca Langoni has been an attacking catalyst for the New England Revolution this season.  | Winslow Townson-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 4:30 p.m. ET \/ 1:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-19\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"94\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/new-england-revolution\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">New England Revolution<\/a> saw a massive morale boost with a 6\u20131 win over FC Cincinnati two games ago, but have otherwise gotten off to a rough start to the season with three wins in four losses under Marko Mitrovi\u0107. This weekend, they welcome a pesky <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/cf-montreal\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">CF Montr\u00e9al<\/a> side to Gillette Stadium, hoping to return to the win column.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-20\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"97\">Luca Langoni has been a standout contributor down the right side for the Revs, amassing four assists in as many games, while Dor Turgeman has a goal and an assist up top. At the back, goalkeeper Matt Turner returns from international duty with the USMNT, where he allowed five goals and made five saves in a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/three-key-takeaways-from-usmnt-s-disastrous-defeat-to-belgium-3-28-26\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">5\u20132 loss to Belgium<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-21\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"9a\">The more intriguing side of the battle might be Montr\u00e9al\u2019s. Expected to finish at the bottom of the league, they beat Red Bull New York 3\u20130 three games ago and fell 4\u20133 to FC Cincinnati last time out. They have four losses in five, but with Prince Owusu and the recently signed Frankie Amaya, they could cause trouble.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-22\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"9d\">Prediction: New England Revolution 1\u20131 CF Montr\u00e9al <\/p>\n<p>Real Salt Lake vs. Sporting Kansas City <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8wcq0hbkr4nv8j9x.jpg\" alt=\"Zavier Gozo \" title=\"Zavier Gozo \" width=\"2732\" height=\"1821\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"9s\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Zavier Gozo is leading Real Salt Lake in 2026. | Peter Creveling-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 4:30 p.m. ET \/ 1:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-27\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"9z\">Longtime MLS followers will know just how deep this rivalry clash goes.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-28\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"a2\">From the frigid 2013 MLS Cup and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/sporting-kansas-city\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Sporting Kansas City<\/a>\u2019s triumph with MLS legends Benny Feilhaber and Graham Zusi getting the better of Nick Rimando and Kyle Beckerman, to the 2011 preseason clash when a full-on brawl broke out between the two sides after Roger Espinoza\u2019s tough challenge on Javier Morales, it\u2019s been one of the best rivalries in MLS.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-29\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"a5\">While the 2026 season is a far cry from the days of both clubs being prominent MLS contenders, it&#8217;s still a feisty rivalry, with plenty of talent to offer. This weekend, it\u2019s the youth of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/real-salt-lake\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Real Salt Lake<\/a>, headlined by teenagers Zavier Gozo and Aiden Hezarkhani, up against a rebuilding SKC side, still finding its footing, but relying on pragmatic goalscorer Dejan Jovelji\u0107 up top.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-30\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"a8\">Although RSL\u2019s three-game win streak ended with a draw against San Diego FC ahead of the break, they should be able to get back to winning ways this weekend. If they do, does four wins in six games make them an outside contender for MLS Cup? <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-31\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"ab\">Prediction: Real Salt Lake 2\u20130 Sporting Kansas City<\/p>\n<p>Atlanta United vs. Columbus Crew<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8wfgb24ecnw43eye.jpg\" alt=\"Miguel Almir\u00f3n\" title=\"Miguel Almir\u00f3n\" width=\"2545\" height=\"1696\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"aq\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Miguel Almir\u00f3n has rekindled his form with Atlanta United. | Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 7:30 p.m. ET \/ 4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-36\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"ax\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/atlanta-united\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Atlanta United<\/a> has always had high standards, so the idea of being two games undefeated isn\u2019t an achievement in the eyes of the club. Yet, for all the struggles they have faced over the last three seasons, an extended break from losing should be seen as a small step forward.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-37\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"b0\">And while the front trio hasn\u2019t hit the form they would have hoped for, each of Emmanuel Latte Lath, Alexey Miranchuk and Miguel Almir\u00f3n has enjoyed bright spots over the last few games. Now, they host the Columbus Crew at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with the Crew looking to bounce back from a 2\u20131 loss to Toronto FC last time out.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-38\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"b3\">While neither side has enjoyed much consistency, it will mark the third straight game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/columbus-crew-sc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Columbus<\/a> midfielder Max Arfsten, who returns to MLS play after international duty with the USMNT and losses to Belgium and Portugal in Atlanta.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-39\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"b6\">Prediction: Atlanta United 2\u20132 D.C. United <\/p>\n<p>Charlotte FC vs. Philadelphia Union <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8wjt4p6m6jceke5h.jpg\" alt=\"Wilfried Zaha \" title=\"Wilfried Zaha \" width=\"2388\" height=\"1592\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"bl\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Wilfried Zaha hopes to keep consistent form with Charlotte FC. | Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 7:30 p.m. ET \/ 4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-44\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"bs\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/charlotte-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Charlotte FC<\/a> has just one loss in its first five games and has won two of its last three, with its most recent result, a dominant 6\u20131 win over a young Red Bull New York side. This week, they welcome the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/philadelphia-union\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Philadelphia Union<\/a> to North Carolina, with the reigning Supporters\u2019 Shield champions looking for any progress after losing each of the first five games of 2026.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-45\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"bv\">Given the form of Pep Biel and Wilfried Zaha through the last several games, Charlotte should handle this result. At the same time, the return of center back Tim Ream from USMNT camp should have him in peak condition coming out of the break.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-46\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"by\">Prediction: Charlotte FC 2\u20131 Philadelphia Union<\/p>\n<p>D.C. United vs. FC Dallas <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01km4tep600dkn7j5dzw.jpg\" alt=\"FC Dallas\" title=\"FC Dallas\" width=\"3170\" height=\"2113\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"cd\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Petar Musa scored a hat-trick against San Diego to mark the first three-goal game from a player in the 2026 MLS season. | Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 7:30 p.m. ET \/ 4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-51\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"ck\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/fc-dallas\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">FC<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/fc-dallas\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\"> Dallas<\/a> heads to the nation\u2019s capital with hopes of turning some of the draws into wins. Through five games, they have lost just once \u2014 but have also won just twice, with draws forcing them lower in the table than other undefeated teams. Coming off a thrilling 4\u20133 win in the Texas Derby over the Houston Dynamo, star striker Petar Musa will look to maintain his form from a hat-trick in his last game and international duty with Croatia.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-52\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"cn\">For <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/dc-united\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">D.C. United<\/a>, the key will be to neutralize Musa and his strike partner, Logan Farrington, with the aim of playing for a low-scoring win. In each of D.C.\u2019s five games this season, they have yet to score more than two goals, but they have also never conceded more than two, either.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-53\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"cq\">Prediction: D.C. United 1\u20132 FC Dallas <\/p>\n<p>Inter Miami vs. Austin FC <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8wpyvgaj95mbbedq.jpg\" alt=\"Lionel Messi, Inter Miami, Lionel Messi\" title=\"Lionel Messi, Inter Miami, Lionel Messi\" width=\"5610\" height=\"3740\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"d5\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Lionel Messi (center) and his Inter Miami teammates had a training session at the new Nu Stadium. | Inter Miami<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 7:30 p.m. ET \/ 4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-58\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"dc\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/inter-miami-cf\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Inter Miami<\/a>\u2019s brand-new stadium, Nu Stadium, has yet to finish construction, but will welcome Lionel Messi and his Herons teammates for the first time this weekend as Inter Miami take on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/austin-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Austin FC<\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-59\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"df\">Several players on both sides come into the weekend fresh off international duty, with Miami\u2019s Messi and Rodrigo De Paul having played in friendlies with Argentina, and Ian Fray having taken part in the FIFA inter-confederation playoffs, missing last-chance World Cup qualification with Jamaica. Austin, meanwhile, saw Facundo Torres sit on the bench for two games with Uruguay.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-60\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"di\">With the focus back on MLS, Miami seeks a fifth-straight undefeated result and fourth win in five games, while Austin eyes a second win in 2026 after a run of two losses and a draw.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-61\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"dl\">Prediction: Inter Miami 3\u20131 Austin FC<\/p>\n<p>New York City FC vs. St. Louis CITY SC<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8wve7cccnhg1y7ay.jpg\" alt=\"Matt Freese\" title=\"Matt Freese\" width=\"5568\" height=\"3712\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"e0\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Matt Freese is back with New York City FC after facing Portugal with the USMNT.  | John Jones-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 7:30 p.m. ET \/ 4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-66\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"e7\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/new-york-city-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">New York City FC<\/a> begins the final season of ballpark bouncing in New York, as they head to Citi Field, home of the New York Mets, for this weekend\u2019s clash against <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/saint-louis-city-sc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">St. Louis CITY SC<\/a>, given the New York Yankees\u2019 home series against the Miami Marlins at Yankee Stadium.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-67\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"ea\">While Inter Miami opens its new stadium, the Mets\u2019 surroundings will have NYCFC dreaming further of what next season will offer at the new Etihad Park. Yet, before they can focus too much on stadiums, they will want to find their way back into the win column, following a 3\u20132 loss to the Herons last time out.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-68\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"ed\">St. Louis CITY come into the game off their first win of the season and also hold the advantage of refreshed players, with only depth forward Mykhi Joyner departing the team over the last week for international duty. NYCFC, in contrast, had seven international absences.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-69\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"eg\">Prediction: New York City FC 3\u20131 St. Louis CITY SC<\/p>\n<p>Red Bull New York vs. FC Cincinnati <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8wwvshsjxw9gj05m.jpg\" alt=\"Julian Hall\" title=\"Julian Hall\" width=\"1305\" height=\"870\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"ev\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Julian Hall and Red Bull New York look to bounce back from a heavy defeat against Charlotte FC.  | Cory Knowlton-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 7:30 p.m. ET \/ 4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-74\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"f2\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/new-york-red-bulls\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Red Bull New York<\/a> were left reeling after a 6\u20131 loss to Charlotte FC last time out, and Michael Bradley\u2019s group will be driven to bounce back against an <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/fc-cincinnati\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">FC Cincinnati<\/a> side that is coming off a win, albeit a worrying 4\u20133 one over CF Montr\u00e9al. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-75\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"f5\">Given Bradley\u2019s reliance on youth talents for RBNY this season, there will be inconsistencies, and that is already becoming extremely evident through the first few games of his tenure. Julian Hall and Adri Mehmeti are talented, but also just mere teenagers taking on this much professional responsibility for the first time. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-76\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"f8\">Cincinnati, meanwhile, is still looking for Evander to hit his best form after some early-season injury concerns, even with K\u00e9vin Denkey finding some consistency with four goals in his last four matches across all competitions. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-77\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"fb\">Prediction: Red Bull New York 1\u20134 FC Cincinnati <\/p>\n<p>Chicago Fire FC vs. Nashville SC  <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01km9wrr2rv61m17g04q.jpg\" alt=\"Sam Surridge, Nashville SC \" title=\"Sam Surridge, Nashville SC \" width=\"4544\" height=\"3029\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"fq\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Sam Surridge looks to build on his MLS Golden Boot lead. | Chris Carter\/MLS\/Getty Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 8:30 p.m. ET \/ 5:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-82\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"fx\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/nashville-sc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Nashville SC<\/a> were the best team through the first five weeks of the MLS season, with the likes of Sam Surridge, Cristian Espinoza and Hany Mukhtar standing out as a potent attacking trio under manager B.J. Callaghan. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-83\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"g0\">Now back in action and on the road against the Chicago Fire, Surridge looks to build on his seven goals and extend his lead atop the MLS Golden Boot standings, while the rest of the team focuses on extending the clean-sheet streak to three-straight MLS matches. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-84\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"g3\">Led by manager Gregg Berhalter, Chicago welcomes plenty of talent back from international duty. The centerback pairing of Joel Waterman and Mbekezeli Mbokazi played significant minutes for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/four-key-takeaways-canada-march-friendlies-2026-world-cup\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Canada<\/a> and South Africa, respectively, with Mbokazi scoring a stunning goal against Panama. As such, expect some rotation, given the lack of rest for those two. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-85\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"g6\">Prediction: Chicago Fire FC 0\u20133 Nashville SC <\/p>\n<p>Houston Dynamo vs. Seattle Sounders <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kktgkt3vetmjx4bmrx.jpg\" alt=\"Guilherme\" title=\"Guilherme\" width=\"2078\" height=\"1385\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"gl\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Guilherme is an early-season favorite for MLS Newcomer of the Year.  | Tim Warner\/Getty Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 8:30 p.m. ET \/ 5:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-90\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"gs\">It was a heartbreaking finish to the Texas Derby for the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/houston-dynamo-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Houston Dynamo<\/a> last time out, as they fell 4\u20133 to rivals FC Dallas. This week, they\u2019re back at home looking for a bounce-back against an in-form <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/seattle-sounders-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Seattle Sounders<\/a> side. And while they lost the derby, finding attacking form from players outside of Guilherme was a critical step in the right direction. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-91\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"gv\">The Sounders, meanwhile, are brimming with confidence. They recently knocked off Cascadia rivals Vancouver Whitecaps in the Concacaf Champions Cup, before playing to a scoreless draw against Minnesota United. They will have a slightly different look, though, having dealt left midfielder Georgi Minoungou to the Colorado Rapids over the break. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-92\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"gy\">Prediction: Houston Dynamo 2\u20132 Seattle Sounders <\/p>\n<p>LAFC vs. Orlando City <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8x6q066ayf0v8kvn.jpg\" alt=\"Son Heung-Min\" title=\"Son Heung-Min\" width=\"2694\" height=\"1796\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"hd\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Son Heung-Min has yet to score for LAFC this season. | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 9:30 p.m. ET \/ 6:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-97\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"hk\">The mission begins for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/orlando-city-sc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Orlando City<\/a>. After signing <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/four-big-challenges-antoine-griezmann-will-face-upon-mls-arrival\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">French superstar Antoine Griezmann<\/a>, they will look to put themselves in as strong a spot as possible for when he joins the team in July, with hopes of an MLS Cup run, despite poor form to start the season. This week, it starts with a massive challenge against <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/los-angeles-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">LAFC<\/a>. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-98\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"hn\">The Black and Gold are back at home in this one and have started the season with four wins in five games, having yet to concede a goal in MLS play, setting a record for the longest shutout streak to start a regular season. At the same time, the attack is hungrier than ever, with Denis Bouanga sitting on one goal in five games and South Korean superstar Son Heung-min yet to find the back of the net.<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-99\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"hq\">Expect a vigorous effort from LAFC, and it could get ugly. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-100\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"ht\">Prediction: LAFC 5\u20131 Orlando City<\/p>\n<p>LA Galaxy vs. Minnesota United  <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8x9p4p18e96x4tz5.jpg\" alt=\"Jo\u00e3o Klauss\" title=\"Jo\u00e3o Klauss\" width=\"2992\" height=\"1994\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"i8\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Jo\u00e3o Klauss has five goals in the LA Galaxy&#8217;s first five games of the 2026 MLS season.  | William Liang-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 10:30 p.m. ET \/ 7:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-105\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"if\">There was potential for this game to feature two legends of the 2010s, with the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/la-galaxy\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">LA Galaxy<\/a>\u2019s Marco Reus and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/minnesota-united-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Minnesota United<\/a>\u2019s James Rodr\u00edguez, but that matchup won\u2019t happen. The Colombian was hospitalized with dehydration while on international duty and won\u2019t be available for the Loons this weekend. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-106\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"ii\">Both sides are looking to snap runs of two losses and a draw in their last three games, while navigating the growing pains of early-season challenges. The Galaxy, however, got a bit of a confidence boost amid their rut, with two wins over Jamaica\u2019s Mount Pleasant FC to advance in the Concacaf Champions Cup and will look for Jo\u00e3o Klauss to build on his five MLS goals so far this campaign. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-107\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"il\">Prediction: LA Galaxy 0\u20130 Minnesota United <\/p>\n<p>San Jose Earthquakes vs. San Diego FC <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8ydc4z0egqhaentb.jpg\" alt=\"Timo Werner\" title=\"Timo Werner\" width=\"1968\" height=\"1312\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"j0\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Timo Werner has helped the San Jose Earthquakes get off to a hot start.  | Simon Fearn-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 10:30 p.m. ET \/ 7:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-112\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"j7\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/san-jose-earthquakes\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">San Jose Earthquakes<\/a> come back from the break in exceptional form, having handed Vancouver Whitecaps a first loss of the season to move to four wins and a loss through the first five games. This week, they host a California rival, taking on Western Conference powerhouse <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/san-diego-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">San Diego FC<\/a>, a side looking to get back to winning ways after two straight draws. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-113\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"ja\">While San Jose will continue to lean on the connection between Timo Werner and Ousseni Bouda, San Diego may have to be measured in the minutes it gives to its stars. Anders Dreyer, the talismanic winger, is coming off a grueling two games with Denmark, which ended in heartbreak as his nation missed the World Cup in the UEFA playoff final. As such, his impact in the California battle may be limited. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-114\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"jd\">Prediction: San Jose Earthquakes 2\u20132 San Diego FC <\/p>\n<p>Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Portland Timbers <img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/01kn8z0t5rpnm8p3r4gd.jpg\" alt=\"Brian White\" title=\"Brian White\" width=\"8247\" height=\"5498\" class=\"undefined w-full w-full blur-[5px]\" q:id=\"js\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Brian White has five MLS goals this season.  | Troy Wayrynen-Imagn Images<\/p>\n<p>Date: Saturday, April 4Time: 10:30 p.m. ET \/ 7:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-119\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"jz\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/vancouver-whitecaps-fc\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Vancouver Whitecaps<\/a> thrashed the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.si.com\/soccer\/team\/portland-timbers\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Portland Timbers<\/a> 4\u20131 just a few weeks ago, but face a new challenge on Saturday as they deal with the latest injury blow to an already depleted center back group. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-120\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"k2\">Ralph Priso, the 23-year-old who has stepped into the defensive role after playing his entire career as a midfielder, suffered a hamstring strain while playing for Canada and will be unavailable for the foreseeable future. It could mean right back Math\u00edas Laborda finds his way to the heart of the defense alongside Tristan Blackmon. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-121\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"k5\">The attack will look to get themselves back among the goals after a 1\u20130 loss to San Jose, with Brian White aiming to build on five goals so far, and each of Thomas M\u00fcller and Emmanuel Sabbi looking to find the back of the net amid a cold spell.    <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-122\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"k8\">For Portland, who enter the match on a four-match winless streak, getting three points is vital. They\u2019ve not picked up a victory since the first week of the season, and manager Phil Neville\u2019s seat may be getting warm, especially with another loss. <\/p>\n<p id=\"inline-text-123\" class=\"my-[18px] [&amp;_a]:text-primary my-f-1.5\" q:key=\"0\" q:id=\"kb\">Prediction: Vancouver Whitecaps 4\u20131 Portland Timbers <\/p>\n<p>MLS Predictions: Matchday 6<\/p>\n<p>Date <\/p>\n<p>Kickoff Time<\/p>\n<p>Fixture<\/p>\n<p>Prediction<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>1:00 p.m. ET\/10:00 a.m PT<\/p>\n<p>Toronto FC vs. Colorado Rapids<\/p>\n<p>3\u20131<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>4:30 p.m. ET\/1:30 p.m PT<\/p>\n<p>New England Revolution vs. CF Montr\u00e9al <\/p>\n<p>1\u20131<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>4:30 p.m. ET\/1:30 p.m PT<\/p>\n<p>Real Salt Lake vs. Sporting Kansas City <\/p>\n<p>2\u20130<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>7:30 p.m. ET\/4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>Atlanta United vs. Columbus Crew<\/p>\n<p>2\u20132<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>7:30 p.m. ET\/4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>Charlotte FC vs. Philadelphia Union <\/p>\n<p>2\u20131<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>7:30 p.m. ET\/4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>D.C. United vs. FC Dallas <\/p>\n<p>1\u20132<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>7:30 p.m. ET\/4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>Inter Miami vs. Austin FC <\/p>\n<p>3\u20131<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>7:30 p.m. ET\/4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>New York City FC vs. St. Louis CITY SC<\/p>\n<p>3\u20131<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>7:30 p.m. ET\/4:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>Red Bull New York vs. FC Cincinnati <\/p>\n<p>1\u20134<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>8:30 p.m. ET\/5:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>Chicago Fire FC vs. Nashville SC  <\/p>\n<p>0\u20133<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>8:30 p.m. ET\/5:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>Houston Dynamo vs. Seattle Sounders <\/p>\n<p>2\u20132<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>9:30 p.m. ET \/ 6:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>LAFC vs. Orlando City<\/p>\n<p>5\u20131<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>10:30 p.m. ET\/7:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>LA Galaxy vs. Minnesota United  <\/p>\n<p>0\u20130<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>10:30 p.m. ET\/7:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>San Jose Earthquakes vs. San Diego FC <\/p>\n<p>2\u20132<\/p>\n<p>Saturday, April 4<\/p>\n<p>10:30 p.m. ET\/7:30 p.m. PT<\/p>\n<p>Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Portland Timbers <\/p>\n<p>4\u20131<\/p>\n<p>READ THE LATEST MLS NEWS, ANALYSIS AND INSIGHT FROM SI FC<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The first international break of the 2026 MLS regular season is in the books, and 30 teams are&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":218004,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[123,125,124],"class_list":["post-218003","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-miami","tag-miami","tag-miami-headlines","tag-miami-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/218003","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=218003"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/218003\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/218004"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=218003"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=218003"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-fl\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=218003"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}