MLS Matchday 12 Takeaways: Minnesota’s Statement, Evander’s Spark, and the Western Conference Shake-Up
Midweek matches are coming fast, but before we turn the page, let’s take a closer look at what Matchday 12 taught us across Major League Soccer. From Minnesota’s growing title hopes to Evander’s elite vision and the evolving race in the Western Conference, there’s plenty to break down.
1. Minnesota United Are Officially Contenders
From Day 1, Minnesota United showed promise under Eric Ramsay. Even in a narrow opening-day loss to LAFC, they demonstrated tactical discipline by neutralizing LAFC’s powerful transition attack. Now, two months later, following a dominant 4-1 win over Inter Miami, there’s no doubt: Minnesota are here to challenge for silverware.
Miami, held to just 0.5 expected goals (xG) — their lowest of the season — simply couldn’t break down Minnesota’s flexible defensive block, which shifted between a 5-3-2 and 5-4-1. Though Luis Suárez was missing, the Loons were without Kelvin Yeboah too, and the performance was still one-sided.
Ramsay’s squad excels at turning defensive solidity into attacking opportunities. They’ve also embraced marginal gains — their second goal against Miami came from a long throw-in routine, something they’ve clearly drilled. Add in the recent arrival of Julian Gressel to improve their possession play, and Minnesota is the team no one will want to face come playoff time.
2. Letting Evander Dictate Play Is a Risky Game
Evander was central to FC Cincinnati’s 2-1 win over Austin FC — not just because of his long-range goal, but for the influence he exerted throughout. The Brazilian playmaker posted a season-high nine touches inside the opponent’s penalty box, showing just how dangerous he can be when used correctly.
His most impactful moment? A pinpoint assist for Gerardo Valenzuela’s game-winner. Evander threaded the needle between defenders, setting up an easy finish and reminding everyone why he’s one of the most technically gifted midfielders in MLS. When he’s allowed to pull the strings, the opposition usually suffers.
3. A Drastic Fall for the Defending Champs
The LA Galaxy’s dramatic fall from grace hit a new low in a 7-0 demolition at the hands of the New York Red Bulls — the very team they beat in last year’s MLS Cup final. The loss tied the record for the largest margin of defeat in an MLS Cup rematch.
Injuries to attacking stars have certainly played a part, but even the Galaxy’s veterans look lost. With no wins in their first 12 games, they’ve now entered historically bad territory. Meanwhile, the Red Bulls continue to stay competitive, with new signing Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting contributing — though not necessarily revolutionizing their attack.
4. Ryan Kent Is Revitalizing Seattle
After a slow start and an early Concacaf Champions Cup exit, the Seattle Sounders have bounced back, thanks in large part to Ryan Kent. The English winger, signed after Paul Arriola’s season-ending injury, has brought energy and production to Brian Schmetzer’s side.
Kent has slotted seamlessly into the starting XI, notching three assists and adding vertical threat and creativity from wide areas. His impact was clear in Seattle’s 3-1 win over Houston, where his assist sliced through the Dynamo’s backline. With Kent in form, Seattle looks more balanced and dangerous than earlier in the season.
5. The West Is Heating Up Behind Vancouver
Vancouver still tops the Supporters’ Shield standings, but the Western Conference is getting crowded. Minnesota (2nd) and Seattle (5th) are both surging, with Seattle boasting the second-best xG differential in MLS.
Portland remains in third after a gritty win over Sporting KC, even while missing multiple starters. San Diego FC, currently fourth, continues to solve tactical puzzles, most recently handling St. Louis CITY’s pressure en route to a 2-1 away win. And while LAFC let a two-goal lead slip against Vancouver, their left-sided attack and set-piece creativity showed they’re still a threat.
The race is wide open — and the chase for the West just got a lot more compelling.
