MLS Matchday 33: Charlotte Aims for a Milestone, Son Shines in California Showdown

MLS resumes after the September international break with an important Matchday 33, as noted by MLSsoccer.com. Saturday’s matches could significantly affect the playoff race, with teams aiming for both spots in the postseason and possible eliminations.

Charlotte FC will face Inter Miami, aiming to extend their eight-game winning streak. A ninth consecutive win would match the league record set by Seattle in 2018 and secure home-field advantage for Round One for the first time in the club’s history. Key players like Idan Toklomati and Wilfried Zaha are leading the team, while Pep Biel is still recovering. Inter Miami welcomes back Lionel Messi after international duty, but Luis Suárez will miss the match due to suspension.

In California, San Jose will take on LAFC at Levi’s Stadium, expecting over 45,000 fans. The Earthquakes, currently ninth in the Western Conference, rely on Cristian Arango, Josef Martínez, and Cristian Espinoza to keep their playoff hopes alive. The focus will also be on Son Heung-Min, LAFC’s record signing, alongside Denis Bouanga. LAFC is keen to improve after just one win in four games since Son’s arrival.

At BC Place, the Vancouver Whitecaps will challenge the Philadelphia Union, who lead the Supporters’ Shield standings. Vancouver, backed by Thomas Müller and coming off a Concacaf Champions Cup run, could secure a playoff spot with a favorable result. Philadelphia, under new coach Bradley Carnell, aims for their second Shield, with Tai Baribo in pursuit of the Golden Boot.

This weekend, four teams (Cincinnati, Charlotte, Nashville, Vancouver) could clinch postseason spots, while five others—including New England, Atlanta, and Toronto—face possible elimination. Matchday 33 is shaping up to be a crucial weekend of the season.