Following 9 action-packed games, 23 goals scored, and 5 players with two goals scored each, just to name a few of the numbers, the first weekend of MLS NEXT Pro action is in the history books. Several teams have made an impression, and that is why they have made their way into our inaugural MLS NEXT Pro Top 5 Team Rankings.
The inaugural week of MLS NEXT Pro began with a bang as St Louis CITY2 defeated Rochester New York FC 2-0 Friday night at St. Louis University's Hermann Stadium. The home team showed a balanced effort on both sides of the ball this game. The two CITY2 goals showed how rapid and decisive this team could move forward. The first came from Wan Kuzain, who reacted quickest to the ball and rifled it into the net. The second goal was a penalty from Vitor Dias, who weaved past the Rochester defense and was taken down before putting it away. Both goals came due to constant pressure on RNY FC as STL CITY2 had 10 shots on goal with four on target. The ST Louis CITY2 defense also stood firm as it held the visitors to only 2 shots on goal all game.
Previous Ranking: N/A
Next Match: at Colorado Rapids 2 on Sunday, April 3
If your team has trouble defending counter-attacks and set pieces, you don't want to play Inter Miami II. The team from Miami beat Columbus Crew 2 with a score of 2-0 at DRV PNK Stadium Saturday afternoon. The score could have been even more lopsided if it weren't for some vital saves from Crew 2 goalkeeper Brady Scott, which included denying Inter Miami II CF's Robbie Robinson a goal directly from a freekick in the first half. Despite the visitors having more possession of the ball with 60%, it could not gain the advantage. Both goals from Emerson Rodriguez came from Inter Miami II's quick and devastating counter-attacks in the second half. Once the team from Florida won the ball back, Columbus Crew 2 had no response as the ball was constantly pushed up the field by the home side.
Previous Ranking: N/A
Next Match: vs. Philadelphia Union II on Sunday, April 3
When Philadelphia Union II defeated FC Cincinnati 2 at Subaru Park Sunday afternoon, Latin American talent was on full display. Colombian Carlos Paternina and Venezuelan Jesus Bueno scored both goals for Philadelphia after the team threw numerous men forward. The first goal from Paternina in the 4th minute was a warning of things to come for FCC2 as the home team converted defense into offense in a flash. Bueno's goal in the second half showed how the team from Philly's build-up play can cut open a team's defense with ease. Bueno received a creative dummy pass from Cole Turner that set up Bueno to put away the chance. Watch out for the Union II's offense as the Latin American flair in the team looks to inspire more wins.
Previous Ranking: N/A
Next Match: at Inter Miami CF II on Sunday, April 3
North Texas SC showed determination and heart in their 3-1 win over Minnesota United FC 2 at Choctaw Stadium Saturday evening. The home team took the lead late in the first half after an electric counter-attack led to Derek Waldeck chipping the MNUFC2 goalkeeper. The visitors would respond in the 64th minute, courtesy of Justin McMaster. The game looked to be going to a shootout, but then came on 16-year-old Tarik Scott, who scored two goals to lead the team from Texas to victory. The goals were created by the constant pressure Scott applied on the Minnesota backline. North Texas SC's will to win late in the game and fast counter-attacks made MNUFC 2 pay for their mistakes. These traits could make the Texas side a problem for their future opponents.
Previous Ranking: N/A
Next Match: at Tacoma Defiance on Saturday, April 2
Complete dominance is what Tacoma Defiance showcased in their 4-0 victory over Real Monarchs at Starfire Stadium Sunday afternoon. Defiance was relentless all game as they tallied 16 total shots on goal, with nine of them on target. The team from Washington made Real Monarchs pay for every mistake it made as the ball seemed to never leave the Monarchs' side of the pitch. The score easily could have swollen to five or six goals if not for the goalposts saving Real Monarchs. Stand-out performers include Alfonso Ocampo-Chavez, who scored 2 goals, and Dylan Teves, who scored and assisted a goal. The home team walked away from this game with 4 goals, a clean sheet, and the league's attention as it put all MLS NEXT Pro clubs on notice.
Previous Ranking: N/A
Next Match: at North Texas SC on Saturday, April 2
