2025 MLS Power Rankings: Post-Matchday 17 Analysis
As the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season progresses, the latest Power Rankings from ESPN give insights into the shifting dynamics of the league following Matchday 17. With all 30 teams assessed, we highlight the notable risers and fallers from this week’s performances.
Key Team Performances
Vancouver Whitecaps, previously ranked first, find themselves adjusting post their recent Concacaf Champions Cup final setback. They played a 0-0 draw against Minnesota United before embarking on a tough journey to Mexico City for a clash with Cruz Azul, redirecting their focus back to MLS competitions in search of improvement.
The Philadelphia Union, ranked second last week, faced disappointment in Texas. Despite starting strong with an extra player in their game against FC Dallas, they could not translate that advantage into a victory, finishing in a goalless draw. This frustration is contrasted with their prior loss on April 12, which has been somewhat forgotten thanks to a renewed interest in evaluating team depth.
Minnesota United, who started at the tenth spot, made an impressive leap thanks to their results. They managed to secure four points during their Cascadia trip, following up a thrilling 3-2 win over the Seattle Sounders with a solid draw against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Tani Oluwaseyi’s standout performance helped maintain their unbeaten streak across five matches.
Meanwhile, Inter Miami is capturing attention with a stellar performance, climbing up the rankings after a commanding 5-1 victory over Columbus Crew. Lionel Messi has been instrumental, netting five goals across three matches, significantly contributing to Miami’s scoring resurgence alongside Luis Suárez. However, defensive strategies need to be honed ahead of the upcoming Club World Cup.
Nashville SC, who were ranked fourth previously, are also facing challenges despite their offensive output. They were unable to maintain a lead against NYCFC, securing only a draw after conceding twice in the second half following a two-goal game from Sam Surridge. This follows a similar trend where they squabbled opportunities to secure wins in their recent outings.
Columbus Crew, ranked sixth, now find themselves in a troubling patch, failing to secure a win across their last six fixtures, which has led to calls for roster adjustments ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Seattle Sounders, prepping for the Club World Cup, suffered a narrow defeat to Minnesota, adding pressure as they navigate their form. A recent protest for more equitable distribution of FIFA’s monetary rewards was staged by players, highlighting ongoing concerns about financial fairness within the league.
A promising show from the expansion side, San Diego FC, has raised hopes for their season as they overcame Austin FC 2-0. Their resilience follows a midweek loss, but the injury to star player Hirving Lozano casts a shadow over their optimistic outlook.
Orlando City faced disappointment against Chicago Fire, losing 3-1 after a series of defensive missteps that left them three goals down early on. They’ll need to rebound quickly to remain competitive in the crowded league.
In another thrilling development, LAFC clinched a spot in the Club World Cup with victory over Club América. Their previous draw against CF Montreal displayed their determination to break through despite a rocky start to the match.
As teams like FC Cincinnati struggle through a winless streak, they remain second in the East, while others, like the D.C. United, secured an unexpected away win against Cincinnati, signaling a potential turnaround in fortunes.
At the bottom of the rankings, clubs like CF Montreal and Real Salt Lake continue to grapple with difficult seasons, with only a singular win so far proving detrimental to their aspirations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, as teams gear up for their next matches, the MLS landscape continues to shift, with critical implications for positions, playoff prospects, and strategic shifts as the season progresses.
