International break does not stop MLS action: matchday five round-up | OneFootball

Major League Soccer action continued this weekend, despite the international break pausing most of Europe’s top leagues.

However, there was no match for Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami side. They had no game scheduled due to a fortunately timed bye week. Consequently, they did not have to line up without their star man who had been called up to represent Argentina before he pulled out with injury.

New England Revolution were the other team that could enjoy a relaxing bye week, but the other 28 MLS sides were forced to continue their campaigns despite the absences of key players who were on international duty.

Atlanta United were the worst affected side, with eight of their players representing their countries. Seven men were missing from Philadelphia Union and every MLS side had at least one player out on international duty.

The international break aside, here are some of the main talking points from the key performances in the fifth round of matches in the 2025 season.

San Diego’s first defeat

San Diego FC were a new addition to this year’s MLS. They were handed their first taste of defeat this weekend. The expansion club won two and drew two of their first four league matches. However, Austin FC defeated them 2-1 this Sunday. It has not all been negative for San Diego this week though, as they have been linked with a summer move for Man City and Premier League star Kevin De Bruyne.

Evander’s brace for Cincinnati

This weekend’s MLS action kicked off with a 2-2 draw between FC Cincinnati and Atlanta United. Cincinnati’s striker Evander was the man of the match as he netted twice. The Brazilian joined Cincinnati from the Portland Timbers for $12 million, after an impressive 15 goals and 15 assists last season.

Vancouver’s perfect start ended

The Vancouver Whitecaps won all four of their opening league games but that perfect run was ended this weekend. The Canadian side lost 3-1 at home to Chicago Fire, who recorded their third successive victory on the road. Chicago’s Hugo Cuypers scored the opening goal of the match, taking his personal tally up to five goals this season.

Philadelphia move to the top of the standings

Vancouver’s defeat allowed Philadelphia Union to rise to the top of the standings. Philadelphia secured a 1-0 victory over St. Louis City and moved above Vancouver due to their superior goal difference. The two sides are in different conferences so it does not make any major difference but Philadelphia can claim to be the best side in the MLS so far this year.

Pep Biel stars for Charlotte

Pep Biel was another standout performer in the MLS this weekend. He starred for Charlotte FC as they thrashed San Jose Earthquakes 4-1. The Spaniard scored the opening goal before assisting his teammates twice in a man of the match display.