MLS Assist — tactical analysis of Major League Soccer

Thank you from Joe and Jordan! And goodbye for now - Jan 10, 2022

It's goodbye for now from Joe and Jordan, at least on MLS Assist. Thank you, sincerely, for listening and making this show possible! We're super, super thankful to all of you!

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What could cause each playoff team's downfall? Plus, digging into MLS Decision Day! Nov 09, 2021

On this week's episode of MLS Assist, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli dive into the action from MLS Decision Day before answering a fun listener question about what could cause each playoff team's downfall.

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The Revs clinch the Supporters' Shield! Plus, analysis of the 2-2 draw between Pareja's Orlando City and Arena's New England Revolution Oct 25, 2021

On this week's episode of MLS Assist, Jordan Angeli and Joe Lowery analyze the 2-2 draw between the New England Revolution and Orlando City! What stood out to us? And who stood out to us? We chat about those things - and dish out some credit to the Revs for clinching the Supporters' Shield this weekend - on the show.

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The East stays crazy, Wilfried Nancy continues to work wonders in Montreal, the Philadelphia Union claw back, and much more Oct 18, 2021

On this week’s episode of MLS Assist, Joe and Jordan analyze Saturday’s game between CF Montreal and the Philadelphia Union. What stood out to us? Who played well? Who coached well? We chat about all that - and more - on the show.

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El Tráfico analysis! Open space galore, lovely possession sequences from the LA Galaxy, LAFC getting out on the break, and much more Oct 04, 2021

On this episode, Jordan and Joe dive into the latest edition of El Tráfico, a 1-1 draw between the LA Galaxy and LAFC. How did both teams approach this game? What did we like? What didn't we like? All that - and much more - on the show.

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Analyzing Atlanta United's wild 3-2 win over D.C. United: Atlanta get out and run, Luiz Araújo shines, Hernán Losada's D.C. transformation, and more Sep 20, 2021

On this week's episode of MLS Assist, Jordan Angeli and Joe Lowery analyze Atlanta United's 3-2 over D.C. United. What went right for Atlanta? How did they break through D.C.'s defensive setup? And, despite the loss, just how much good has Losada done for this D.C. team? We discuss those things - and much more - on the show.

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Vancouver make their playoff push, Jesús Ferreira scores a wondergoal, RSL take full advantage of FC Dallas' defensive struggles, and more Sep 06, 2021

On this week's episode of MLS Assist, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli dive into the tactics from a pair of recent MLS games: RSL vs. FC Dallas and the Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Austin FC. What did we see? What did we like? What didn't we like? And who stood out? All that - and more - on the show!

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What makes NYCFC so filthy good, the Revs miss some of their stars, how to topple the Eastern Conference’s giants, and more Aug 30, 2021

On this week's episode of MLS Assist, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli analyze NYCFC's 2-0 win over the New England Revolution. What makes Ronny Deila's New York City team so good? What went wrong for the Revs? And, come playoff time, how can opponents beat both of these Eastern Conference giants? We talk about all that - and much more.

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Analyzing big moves from the MLS transfer window! The Whitecaps get their #10, Colorado elevate their midfield with Mark-Anthony Kaye, Austin and Atlanta make DP signings, and more Aug 09, 2021

On this episode of MLS Assist, Joe and Jordan analyze some of the biggest moves from MLS's latest transfer window.

1) Jeremy Ebobisse to San Jose

2) Ryan Gauld to Vancouver

3) Luiz Araújo to Atlanta

4) Sebastian Diussi to Austin

5) Mark-Anthony Kaye to Colorado

6) Federico Navarro to Chicago

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Ricardo Pepi, Carles Gil, Boris Sekulić, the Nashville Contingent, and more players we’re loving in MLS Jul 26, 2021

On this episode, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli chat about a handful of MLSers that have impressed them this season. From young Americans to Spanish playmakers to the next entrant into the "Julian Gressel Crossing Hall of Fame", there were plenty of players to get to!

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Analyzing Minnesota United’s new signings Fragapane and Hunou, what led to the end of Seattle's undefeated streak, and much more Jul 19, 2021

Jordan Angeli and Joe Lowery discuss Minnesota United's 1-0 win over the Seattle Sounders. How did Minnesota snap Seattle's undefeated streak? What went wrong for the Sounders (besides missing a bunch of top players)? And what do we make of Minnesota United's new attacking weapons? All that - and more - on the show.

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Is Venezia a good spot for Tanner Tessmann, what's up with D.C.'s Andy Najar experiment, how do the Sounders keep Soundering, and more listener questions Jul 12, 2021

On this episode, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli answer your questions!

1) Which players could benefit from a teammate's absence at the Gold Cup?

2) How good has Andy Najar been as a center back for D.C. United under Hernan Losada?

3) Does FC Cincinnati's Yuya Kubo have the skillset to be an elite central midfielder?

4) How are the Seattle Sounders playing so well without many of their star players?

5) Is Venezia in Serie A a good destination for FC Dallas' Tanner Tessmann?

We answer those questions on the show - and chat about a few other things too!

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SKC strut their stuff, Bob Bradley goes back to the 3-5-2 for LAFC, 3-at-the-back shapes are taking over MLS, and more Jun 28, 2021

On this episode, Jordan Angeli and Joe Lowery analyze Sporting Kansas City's 2-1 win over LAFC. What went right for SKC? And is the 3-5-2 a good fit for LAFC? Plus, we chat about players that impressed us, center backs taking over MLS, and much more.

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Columbus look like themselves as they close out Historic Crew Stadium in style, Brian Gutiérrez may be a star in the making, and more Jun 21, 2021

On this week’s episode, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli break down the Columbus Crew’s 2-0 win over the Chicago Fire. How did Columbus look in their last-ever game at Historic Crew Stadium? What’s wrong with the Fire? And just how much does Joe love Brian Gutiérrez? All that - and more - on the show.

And as mentioned, here is the story that Josh Williams wrote for The Columbus Dispatch reflecting on the importance of Historic Crew Stadium.

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Fullbacks ready to go full Nouhou and play center back, RBNY's progression under Struber, MLS players to watch at this summer's international tournaments, and much more Jun 14, 2021

On this episode of MLS Assist, Jordan Angeli and Joe Lowery answer some of your listener questions! Which fullbacks could make a Nouhou-ish transition to center back? How are the New York Red Bulls progressing under Gerhard Struber? Which MLS players are we keeping our eyes on during this summer's slew of international tournaments? We answer those questions - and more - on the show.

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Fixing MLS's bottom-dwellers, USMNT vs. Mexico talk, how to increase your team's speed of play in possession, and much more Jun 07, 2021

On this week's show, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli chat about the USMNT's crazy 3-2 win over Mexico from Sunday night. They also talk about how to fix FC Dallas and FC Cincinnati, the two teams at the bottom of their respective conferences, before answering a wonderful listener question!

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Nouhou’s center back transformation, Rubio Rubin answering RSL’s questions at the nine, Leon Flach running all day, and more standout players from the start of the MLS season May 24, 2021

After watching film and digging into the numbers, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli talk about a handful of MLS players who have impressed them so far this season. From Nouhou to Rubio Rubin to Žan Kolmanič, there's a little something for everyone.

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What does Cade Cowell bring to the Quakes, what's going on with Toronto FC's attack, how is Moses Nyeman doing for D.C., and more listener questions May 10, 2021

After a month of MLS action, Jordan Angeli and Joe Lowery are here to answer your listener questions! From tactics, to scouting reports, to the importance of on-field chemistry, there's plenty to get to. You can find the full list of questions down below.

1) What does Moses Nyeman do well for D.C. United? And how can he improve?

2) How important is familiarity between center backs?

3) Is the number 9 Cade Cowell's best position? And what does he bring to that spot that others don't?

4) What's wrong with Toronto's attack right now?

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Inter Miami’s balance under Phil Neville, Higuain’s Rooney role, Hernán Losada’s fitness demands and aggressive style with D.C., and much more May 03, 2021

Jordan Angeli and Joe Lowery break down two more MLS teams with new coaches: Phil Neville's Inter Miami and Hernán Losada's D.C. United. How is Neville setting up his Miami team? And how is he using Gonzalo Higuain? What's up with D.C.'s injury problems? And how is Losada structuring his new squad? We talk about all that and much more.

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Galaxy vs. RBNY analysis: Chicharito does his thing, Víctor Vázquez pulls the strings, Red Bull gives you wings, and much more Apr 26, 2021

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli break down one of the best games of this young 2021 MLS season: the Los Angeles Galaxy vs. the New York Red Bulls. What do the Galaxy look like under their new coach, Greg Vanney? And what do the Red Bulls look like under their new man, Gerhard Struber? We talk about those two things, chat about Chicharito, narrow midfields, meat grinders, and much more before the return of Tactical Tidbits!

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How does Josh Wolff’s Austin FC team play? Inside the tactics of MLS’s newest team Apr 19, 2021

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli break down MLS's newest team: Austin FC. How does Josh Wolff want to play? What are his tactical principles? And what did we see from Austin's first-ever game against LAFC? We talk about all that and much more.

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Western Conference Very Specific Predictions: David Ochoa breaks out for RSL, San Jose stays crazy, Josh Wolff inverts his fullbacks, and much more Apr 12, 2021

It's another Very Specific Prediction episode! Last week, Jordan and Joe tackled the Eastern Conference, so this week is all about the West! With the MLS season just days away, our hosts give you 13 VSPs on this episode, one for each team in the West.

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Eastern Conference Very Specific Predictions: Lucho boosts Cincinnati's creativity fivefold, NYCFC sells Sands, Gary Smith's Nashville become the best defensive team in MLS, and more Apr 05, 2021

It's Very Specific Prediction time! On this episode, Jordan and Joe make VSPs for all 14 Eastern Conference teams to give you some things to watch for in the 2021 MLS season.

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Breaking down new MLS signings! What does Cecilio Domínguez bring to Austin? How does Alan Franco fit in Atlanta? Plus, analysis of newcomers in Portland, Vancouver, and LA Mar 29, 2021

Joe and Jordan analyze some of MLS’s newest players, letting you know what to expect from Cecilio Domínguez in Austin, Kim Moon-hwan with LAFC, Claudio Bravo in Portland, Déiber Caicedo up in Vancouver, and Alan Franco in Atlanta.

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Analyzing MLS’s newest offseason signings: what to expect from Brenner in Cincinnati, Pochettino in Austin, Sosa in Atlanta, Martinez in Dallas, and Gregore in Miami Mar 15, 2021

On this episode, Joe and Jordan fill you in on what to expect from some of MLS's newest offseason additions.

1) What is Brenner going to do in Cincinnati?

2) What kind of player is Austin FC's new DP Tomás Pochettino?

3) How is Santiago Sosa going to fit in Gabriel Heinze's midfield in Atlanta?

4) How much is Joe in love with new FC Dallas center back Jose Antonio Martinez?

5) Is Gregore the perfect signing for Inter Miami?

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Should Vlatko use Crystal Dunn like Bob Bradley uses Latif Blessing, who's in our "press-resistant" back three, is Carles Gil an MVP candidate, and more listener questions Mar 08, 2021

On this episode of MLS Assist, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli answer your lovely questions! What is the next tactical evolution coming to MLS? How does Aidan Morris change Caleb Porter's double pivot? Is Carles Gil a believable MVP candidate? Joe and Jordan answer all of those questions - and more - on the show.

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MLS's up-and-coming talent: Caden Clark, Efra Álvarez, George Bello, and more Americans youngsters that we're watching in 2021 Feb 22, 2021

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli chat about young American players that they're particularly looking forward to seeing on the field in MLS this season. Could 2021 be Efra Álvarez's breakout season? How is new D.C. United head coach Hernán Losada going to use Kevin Paredes? Is Caden Clark the Red Bulls starting #10? Joe and Jordan take a stab at answering all of those questions - and many more - on this episode of MLS Assist.

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A guide to soccer’s version of WAR, plus how MLS teams should be trading their assets w/Sam Goldberg Feb 08, 2021

On this episode, Joe Lowery is joined by data scientist (and former professional baseball player) Sam Goldberg to talk about the current state of analytics in MLS, soccer's version of WAR, and how MLS teams should be thinking about trades.

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What are Pomykal and Busio’s best positions, how do the Sounders adapt without Jordan Morris, do the Houston Dynamo and Vancouver Whitecaps have tactical styles, and more listener questions Feb 01, 2021

On this episode of MLS Assist, Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli answer some top-notch listener questions.

1) Did Atlanta United’s Miles Robinson regress last year?

2) What is the Portland Timbers tactical style under Gio Saverese?

3) Do the Houston Dynamo and Vancouver Whitecaps have defined styles of play?

4) How will the Seattle Sounders adapt to playing without Jordan Morris?

5) What are Paxton Pomykal and Gianluca Busio’s best positions?

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Analyzing MLS's newest coaches! What to expect from Heinze in Atlanta, Losada in D.C., Wolff in Austin, and Neville in Miami Jan 25, 2021

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli combed through film on MLS's newest head coaches - and now they're here to give you the low-down on them. What should fans expect to see from Gabriel Heinze in Atlanta, from Hernán Losada in D.C., from Josh Wolff in Austin, and from Phil Neville in Miami? Listen and find out!

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MLS Offseason Roundup: Jordan Morris to Swansea? New coaches! Austin FC's roster, Molino and BWP to the Crew, and more Jan 18, 2021

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli talk through some of the most notable moves from the MLS offseason so far. From Jordan Morris' reported move to Swansea to coaching hires in Los Angeles, Toronto, D.C., and Miami to some big player trades and signings, there's plenty to get to!

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Lucas Zelarayan and Aidan Morris shine, Caleb Porter's smart gameplan, Seattle's late push, and more from MLS Cup Dec 14, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli analyze MLS Cup! What did Columbus do well? What didn't Seattle do so well? And just how good was Lucas Zelarayan? Listen in and find out.

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Lodeiro vs. Reynoso in Seattle, a set piece seminar, the Crew's complete performance, and so much more from the Conference Finals Dec 08, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli analyze the two Conference Finals from the MLS Cup Playoffs: the Columbus Crew vs. the New England Revolution in the East and the Seattle Sounders vs. Minnesota United out West.

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Reynoso and Molino steal the show in Kansas City, the Seattle Sounders stay strong, and so much more from the Western Conference semifinals Dec 04, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli dive deep into the on-field action from the latest MLS Cup Playoff games! They start with the Seattle Sounders vs. FC Dallas and then bring things home with Sporting Kansas City vs. Minnesota United.

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Carles Gil is a wizard, Caleb Porter and Gary Smith battle it out, and so much more from the Eastern Conference semis Nov 30, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli are back with more MLS Cup Playoff analysis! On this episode, they dig into two Eastern Conference Semifinals: Orlando City vs. the New England Revolution and the Columbus Crew vs. Nashville SC.

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Smart gameplans from Gary Smith and Bruce Arena, Seattle's Big 3 shine bright, and plenty more from the latest MLS playoff action Nov 25, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli talk goals, matchups, and tactics from the last three games of the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs:

Toronto FC vs. Nashville SC
Philadelphia Union vs. New England Revolution
Seattle Sounders vs. LAFC

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Playoff analysis! Bruce Arena vs. Thierry Henry, SKC's bonkers win over SJ, Reynoso and Molino dominating, and so much more from the MLS playoffs Nov 23, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli catch you up on all of the MLS playoff action that's happened so far! They break down all seven games from Friday, Saturday, and Sunday:

New England Revolution vs. Montreal Impact
Nashville vs. Inter Miami
Orlando City vs. NYCFC
Columbus Crew vs. New York Red Bulls
Sporting Kansas City vs. San Jose Earthquakes
Minnesota United vs. Colorado Rapids
Portland Timbers vs. FC Dallas

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MLS Playoff Preview! Does Michael Bradley fit in TFC’s midfield? Lodeiro vs. Atuesta, playmakers galore, and much more Nov 16, 2020

The playoffs are less than a week away! Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli preview every single MLS team in the postseason field, giving listeners one thing to watch for from each team.

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Decision Day analysis! Columbus’ crazy passing, Vela’s return, and much more from the final regular season weekend Nov 09, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli are in your ears with a smattering of tactical analysis from Decision Day. From goals on goals and passes on passes in the East to attacking transition moments and the return of a juggernaut in the West, there are tactics galore!

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Gary Smith’s effective route one soccer, Columbus breaking Philly’s press, the Rapids’ statement win, and much more from the latest MLS action Nov 02, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli talk tactics from the penultimate weekend of Major League Soccer’s regular season.

From Nashville’s effective roster build and tactical approach, to a potential playoff matchup between the Columbus Crew and the Philadelphia Union, to the Rapids’ impressive performance (and lovely first goal), to Tactical Tidbits, Joe and Jordan are here to satisfy your tactical hankering for the week.

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The No. 10’s success in MLS, Philadelphia’s dominant win, LAFC’s test, and tons more from the latest MLS action Oct 26, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli dish out tactical insight from the most recent weekend in Major League Soccer. From the number 10 position's major role in MLS, to the Union’s incredible performance against Toronto FC, to El Tráfico, to Tactical Tidbits, this week’s episode of MLS Assist covers a ton of ground, unlike the amount of ground that Michael Bradley, Laurent Ciman, and Omar Gonzalez cover for Toronto FC.

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Daryl Grove is the man. Also, analysis of USMNT prospect Caden Clark, Thierry Henry’s smart gameplan, tactical triangles, and more Oct 19, 2020

This week’s show begins with an ode to Daryl Grove, who is currently battling cancer. Daryl is a producer of MLS Assist, helped create and brand the show, and, above all, is an amazing man. We are immeasurably thankful for him and for the impact that he has on our lives and the lives of so many others. Daryl, you are in our prayers.

During the much less important Major League Soccer part of the show, Joe and Jordan analyze New York Red Bulls/USMNT youngster Caden Clark and chat about a couple of other promising young American talents. Then there’s triangle talk (and Alvaro Medran appreciation) from Saturday’s matchup between Chicago and SKC and analysis of Thierry Henry’s smart gameplan that led the Montreal Impact to a 2-1 win over Inter Miami. Finally, as always, we get to Tactical Tidbits. This week's tidbits feature Toronto FC, the Portland Timbers, the Seattle Sounders, and Matías Almeyda's hair.

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MLS analysis with Stu Holden: Aaronson’s best position, what to expect from Gerhard Struber, Ben Olsen out of D.C., and tons more! Oct 12, 2020

Joe Lowery is joined by FOX Sports’ very own Stu Holden for a wide-ranging MLS conversation. Topics covered include (but aren’t limited to):

How do D.C. United move forward without Ben Olsen?
General confusion about Thierry Henry’s Montreal Impact
A dissection of Brenden Aaronson’s game
How Stu would stop the Seattle Sounders

Also, make sure to check out 361, a video project created to reimagine storytelling in the American soccer space. You can find 361’s first-ever video, on former New York Red Bulls coach Jesse Marsch, right here.

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Galaxy-sized problems in LA, a tactical battle between Luchi Gonzalez vs. Caleb Porter, throw-in woes, and more from the weekend’s MLS action Oct 05, 2020

Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli put their collective finger on why the Galaxy are sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference. Then, they take a look at Saturday’s entertaining 2-2 draw between FC Dallas and Columbus Crew, rant (constructively, of course) about throw-ins, and run through some tactical tidbits.

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Raphaël Wicky turning Chicago into Spain, Gonzalo Higuain’s debut, transfer talk, and much more w/Tom Bogert! Sep 28, 2020

Tom Bogert of MLSsoccer.com joins Joe Lowery to analyze this weekend’s slate of games and to shine a well-informed light on plenty of transfers from around the league.

1:25 - How did Gonzalo Higuain’s do in his debut?

10:35 - Mark McKenzie’s skillset and future (plus some discussion about other Union youngsters)

19:58 - Greg Vanney game planning for a right back? Greg Vanney game planning for a right back.

24:46 - Seattle keep doing exactly what they want to do

32:17 - Are the Chicago Fire good?

39:05 - A scouting report on young D.C. United central midfielder Moses Nyeman

41:35 - Tom’s thoughts on FC Dallas’ playmaker Andrés Ricaurte

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Who are the best subs in MLS? What does Cole Bassett do? Should Ben Olsen still be coaching D.C. United? And many more listener questions Sep 21, 2020

2:41 - Should DC fire Ben Olsen?

10:46 - Who are the best subs in MLS?

19:04 - How do the Timbers adjust without Sebastian Blanco?

25:50 - Who is going to replace Reggie Cannon in Dallas and Alberth Elis in Houston?

33:56 - What is Cole Bassett doing well for the Colorado Rapids?

40:51 - What does the term “pocket winger” mean?

44:17 - What’s the status of FC Cincinnati’s struggling attack?

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Nani’s nutmeg, Miami’s smart structural switch, beautiful team goals, and so much more from this week’s MLS action Sep 14, 2020

2:11 - We want your questions!

3:23 - What will Jhonder Cádiz bring to Nashville?

8:11 - Orlando City vs. Inter Miami analysis

22:36 - Thierry Henry and the Great Puzzle of Montreal

29:41 - NYCFC’s attacking issues

32:56 - LAFC vs. Portland Timbers analysis

45:22 - Promising signs in Dallas

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Armas out, Pity (reportedly) out, Reynoso in, and loads more from a busy week in MLS Sep 07, 2020

1:30 - Chris Armas out in New York

8:30 - Pity Martinez almost out in Atlanta

16:18 - Emanuel Reynoso is here!

27:53 - Houston's dangerous attacking play + SKC's beautiful goal

34:50 - Busio film review

40:51 - San Jose v Colorado

49:46 - Tactical Tidbits

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Daryl Dike's dominance, Philly's press resistance, "FC Cincinnati-ing it" and more from the latest week of MLS Aug 31, 2020

1:01 - Highlighting MLS players' midweek protest against racial injustice

2:30 - Daryl Dike is balling

11:33 - Philadelphia Union vs. D.C. United

29:54 - FC Cincinatti vs. Columbus Crew

39:21 - Tactical Tidbits

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Nagbe's stunner, the Galaxy's game plan, Atlanta's setup under Glass, and tons more from MLS's resumed regular season Aug 24, 2020

4:25 - Dallas' chance creation struggles

11:34 - How does Nashville play?

18:57 - Darlington Nagbe, take a bow

24:16 - El Tráfico

35:17 - Who are Atlanta United?

43:05 - Tactical Tidbits

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Timbers’ defensive diamonds, goal analysis, and plenty more from the MLS is Back Final clash between Portland and Orlando Aug 12, 2020

1:13 - analysis of the MLS is Back Final

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Pareja vs. Savarese, Orlando's possession vs. Portland's block, Nani and Blanco in the Ultimate MVP Contest, and tons more previewing the MLS is Back final Aug 08, 2020

3:28 - MLS announced more games on the schedule

5:44 - A preview of the MLS is Back Tournament final

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Nani’s dominance, Molino's electric performance, and much more from Orlando vs. Minnesota in the MLS is Back semifinals Aug 07, 2020

1:00 - Orlando City vs. Minnesota United

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Portland’s strong tactical identity, corner kick defending, Aaronson's best position, and more from Philadelphia vs. Portland in the MLS is Back semifinals Aug 06, 2020

1:15 - Philadelphia Union vs. Portland Timbers

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Americans to watch, switches to Nani, and tactical tidbits previewing Philadelphia v Portland and Orlando v Minnesota in the MLS is Back semis Aug 03, 2020

2:01 - Philadelphia Union vs. Portland Timbers

9:50 - Orlando City vs. Minnesota United

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Adrian Heath’s press, Blanco the point guard, and more from; San Jose v Minnesota and NYCFC v Portland Aug 02, 2020

1:30 - San Jose Earthquakes vs. Minnesota United

12:30 - NYCFC vs. Portland Timbers

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Pareja came to play, "The LAFC Zone", and tons more from Orlando City vs. LAFC Aug 01, 2020

0:36 - Jordan is a fortune teller

1:30 - Orlando City vs. LAFC

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Aaronson’s dominance, a Busio scouting report, and much more from the Philadelphia Union vs. Sporting Kansas City Jul 31, 2020

0:55 - Philadelphia Union vs. Sporting Kansas City

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Adrian Heath’s plan, Portland pouncing on chaos, and much more from; Columbus v Minnesota and Portland v Cincinnati Jul 29, 2020

1:17 - Columbus Crew vs. Minnesota United

10:50 - Portland Timbers vs. FC Cincinatti

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LAFC is back, Almeyda’s Samurai soccer, and more from; San Jose v RSL and Seattle v LAFC Jul 28, 2020

0:53 - San Jose Earthquakes vs. Real Salt Lake

10:15 - Seattle Sounders v LAFC

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Hasal almost plays hero, Sands' counter-pressing, and more from; Toronto v NYCFC and SKC v Vancouver Jul 27, 2020

1:08 - Toronto FC vs. New York City FC

9:28 - Sporting Kansas City vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

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Nani’s flicks, a midfield clash, and more from; Orlando v Montreal and Philadelphia v New England (plus, de Boer out in ATL!) Jul 26, 2020

1:59 - Frank de Boer out in Atlanta

5:03 - Orlando City vs. Montreal Impact

14:30 - Philadelphia Union vs. New England Revolution

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Guillermo Barros Schelotto's crosses, MLS's defensive problems, and more from; Chicago v Vancouver, Galaxy v Houston, and LAFC v Portland Jul 24, 2020

2:14 - Chicago Fire vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

9:26 - LA Galaxy vs. Houston Dynamo

16:02 - LAFC vs. Portland Timbers

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Water breaks with Freddy Juarez, Ethan Finley analysis, and more from; RSL v SKC, Cincinnati v Red Bulls, and Colorado v Minnesota Jul 23, 2020

1:04 - Real Salt Lake vs. Sporting Kansas City

7:05 - FC Cincinnati vs. New York Red Bulls

15:00 - Colorado Rapids vs. Minnesota United

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Porter’s pretty possession, an Akinola/Altidore partnership, and more from; Toronto v New England, Atlanta v Columbus, and Montreal vs. D.C. Jul 22, 2020

0:57 - Toronto FC vs. New England Revolution

7:50 - Atlanta United vs. Columbus Crew

15:20 - Montreal Impact vs. D.C. United

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Pizarro and Pereyra playmaking, goals, and more from; Miami vs. NYCFC and Philadelphia v Orlando Jul 21, 2020

1:11 - Inter Miami vs. NYCFC

9:59 - Philadelphia Union vs. Orlando City

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You should mark Chris Wondolowski, Seattle's defensive structure, and more from; Chicago v San Jose and Seattle v Vancouver Jul 20, 2020

0:54 - Chicago Fire vs. San Jose Earthquakes

10:55 - Seattle Sounders vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

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El Tráfico stays crazy, Jeremy Ebobisse's positioning, and more from; Portland v Houston and LAFC v Galaxy Jul 19, 2020

0:54 - Portland Timbers vs. Houston Dynamo

10:10 - LAFC vs. LA Galaxy

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The anatomy of a double pivot, Higuain the super-sub, and more from ; SKC v Colorado, D.C. v New England, and RSL v Minnesota Jul 18, 2020

1:18 - Sporting Kansas City vs. Colorado Rapids

5:40 - D.C. United vs. New England Revolution

13:10 - Real Salt Lake vs. Minnesota United

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Pozuelo's off-ball movement, an ode to Nagbe, and more from; Atlanta v Cincinnati, Toronto v Montreal, and Columbus v New York Jul 17, 2020

1:00 - Atlanta United vs. FC Cincinnati

7:35 - Toronto FC vs. Montreal Impact

16:17 - Columbus Crew vs. New York Red Bulls

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Corner kicks, mass subs, and general insanity from San Jose and Vancouver's seven-goal thriller Jul 16, 2020

0:00 - Tactical analysis of the craziness beings

22:44 - Tactical analysis of the craziness ends

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Orlando City is good now? Plus plenty more from; Seattle v Chicago, NYCFC v Orlando, Philly v Miami Jul 15, 2020

1:18 - Seattle Sounders vs. Chicago Fire

5:19 - NYCFC vs. Orlando City

13:42 - Philadelphia Union vs. Inter Miami

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Goals galore, how to fix the Galaxy, and more from; Toronto v D.C., LAFC v Houston, LAG v Portland Jul 14, 2020

1:06 - Toronto FC vs. D.C. United

6:04 - LAFC vs. the Houston Dynamo

14:50 - LA Galaxy vs. the Portland Timbers

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Pulido's skill, late goals, and more from day five of the MLS is Back Tournament Jul 13, 2020

1:25 - An MLS is Back coronavirus update

3:40 - Sporting Kansas City vs. Minnesota United

14:25 - Real Salt Lake vs. the Colorado Rapids

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Late, late night analysis from MLS is Back, day four Jul 12, 2020

2:30 - New York Red Bulls vs. Atlanta United

10:22 - Columbus Crew vs. FC Cincinnati

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MLS is Back Tournament day three: Man-marking, right-sided attacking, and more Jul 11, 2020

1:13 - For very important (and quality) coverage of the circumstances surrounding this tournament, check out Allocation Disorder, located in the Total Soccer Show feed and hosted by The Athletic's Paul Tenorio and Sam Stejskal

2:46 - Analysis of Seattle vs. San Jose

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Reviewing the action from day two of the MLS is Back Tournament Jul 10, 2020

1:29 - Nashville news

3:22 - Philadelphia vs. New York City

13:45 - New England vs. Montreal

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Analyzing the MLS is Back Tournament opener: Orlando City 2-1 win over Miami Jul 09, 2020

0:00 - MLS is really and truly back

2:20 - How did Diego Alonso's Inter Miami set up? Then, what went right and what went...less right for them in their setup?

4:52 - How did Oscar Pareja's Orlando City set up? Featuring João Moutinho's fun positioning.

8:08 - Inter Miami's goal

11:57 - Orlando City's first goal

17:52 - Orlando City's second goal

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What to expect from MLS Assist during MLS is Back (plus bonus predictions!) Jul 06, 2020

0:00 - We're in our own feed...and part of The Athletic!

4:26 - What to expect from MLS Assist during the MLS is Back Tournament!

8:06 - Predicting the winners of the tournament's Golden Boot, Player of the Tournament, Golden Glove, and Young Player of the Tournament awards

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10 Very Specific Predictions for the MLS is Back tournament Jun 30, 2020

From where you'll see the most attempted dribbles to who will receive the most through balls, Joe and Jordan offer 10 very specific predictions for the upcoming MLS is Back tournament

SPONSOR: Use code SOCCER to get 25% off at SundayScaries.com

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An MLS is Back Extravaganza! Jun 23, 2020

0:00 - The details and pertinent info for the MLS is Back tournament

15:46 - Get your custom mask today at Podiumwear.comand bookmark them for when you’re ready for your next soccer kit order

16:58 - The structure of the tournament and its inherent imbalance

Then some Quick Hits on the individual groups:

21:44 - Group A

24:29 - Group B

26:46 - Group C

28:21 - Group D

30:19 - Group E

31:47 - Group F

33:37 - Go to GetRoman.com/TSS for a free online visit

34:57 - Individual player news, featuring LGP, Andy Najar, Federico Higuain, and more

48:34 - Answering some listener questions

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10 players who could (and should) make the move to Europe Jun 16, 2020

Joe and Jordan name 10 MLS players who could and should move to Europe. But, there are conditions to being on Joe and Jordan's Future Transfer List:

No USMNT-eligible players, because that's next week's show
Must have bee in MLS at least one year
No loanees
Must be 26 or younger
No more than two players per MLS team on the list

And here are the timestamps:

6:30 — Latif Blessing (LAFC)

12:40 — Eddie Segura (LAFC)

17:20 — Julian Gressel (DC United)

25:10 — Franco Escobar (Atlanta United)

29:45 — Artur (Columbus Crew)

36:40 — Ezequiel Barco (Atlanta United)

42:30 — Milton Valenzuela (Columbus Crew)

48:45 — Valentín Castellanos (NYCFC)

53:05 — Mauro Manotas (Houston Dynamo)

57:25 — Alberth Elis (Houston Dynamo)

SPONSORS!

Register for the LLS Big Climb at LLS.org/bigclimb

Get 25% off your first Hydrant order at DrinkHydrant.com/soccer

Get 25% off at SundayScaries.com using code SOCCER

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10 Americans in MLS who could (and should) make the move to Europe Jun 09, 2020

This week, your intrepid hosts return to discuss which Americans could (and should) make the jump to Europe. The rules, as with last week:

Players must have been with their current team for at least one season
No players on loan at their current MLS team
They must be under 26 years old
No more than 2 players from any one team can be on the lists

Sponsors! Today's episode of MLS Assist is brought to you by...

Podiumwear! Get your custom mask today at Podiumwear.com and bookmark them for when you’re ready for your next soccer kit order

Hawthorne! Get 10% off your purchase with the code "TSS" at Hawthorne.co

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The Goals Added soccer metric explained, with John Muller of American Soccer Analysis Jun 02, 2020

Joe Lowery is joined by John Muller of American Soccer Analysis to talk about goals added, the new soccer metric that captures the effect of every touch on the ball on that team's chances of scoring or conceding and might change the way we measure soccer.

John says goals added is a soccer metric that "tells us what matters" on the field.

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