What Are the Top 10 Most Exciting MLS Soccer Games This Season?

As a longtime MLS analyst who’s followed the league since its early days, I’ve seen my fair share of memorable matches—but this season has something special brewing. When I think about what makes a game truly exciting, it’s not just the star power or final scoreline; it’s the narratives, the adjustments, and those moments when a player or team finds their rhythm under pressure. Take, for instance, that recent quote from a coach about a new signing: “And kitang-kita naman he’s still adjusting. He doesn’t know yet the system and what kind of plays we do because we can’t teach everything in two days.” That right there captures the tension and unpredictability I love. It’s why I’ve put together my personal top 10 most exciting MLS games this season, blending data, drama, and a dash of bias—because hey, who doesn’t love a good rivalry or underdog story?

Let’s kick things off with the LA Galaxy vs. LAFC clash back in March. The atmosphere was electric, with over 70,000 fans packing the Rose Bowl, and the game delivered with a 3-2 finish thanks to a last-minute winner from Riqui Puig. As someone who’s watched Derék develop over the years, I have to say his assist in that match was pure class—it’s moments like these that remind me why derbies top my list. Then there’s Inter Miami’s showdown with Atlanta United, where Messi’s magic wasn’t quite enough to salvage a 2-2 draw, but the back-and-forth action had me on the edge of my seat. Stats-wise, Miami averaged 58% possession in their first five games, but this one saw them pushed to their limits, and honestly, I think it exposed some gaps in their high-press system. What stood out to me, though, was how new signings struggled to integrate, much like that coach’s observation about players needing time to adapt. I’ve seen it time and again: a team can have all the talent, but if they haven’t gelled, it shows in those tight matches.

Moving east, the Philadelphia Union vs. New York Red Bulls game in April was a tactical masterclass, ending 1-0 but featuring 22 shots total. As a fan of gritty, defensive battles, I’d rank this higher than most—maybe it’s my soft spot for underdogs, but Philly’s resilience without their key striker won me over. Then there’s Seattle Sounders hosting Portland Timbers; that 2-1 result doesn’t tell the whole story, with a controversial penalty call that, in my view, swung the momentum. I’ll admit, I’m partial to Cascadia clashes—the history just adds layers to the excitement. Another gem was Austin FC against FC Dallas, where Sebastián Driussi’s hat-trick led to a 4-3 thriller. Numbers? Austin’s xG (expected goals) hit 2.8 that day, but it felt like every shot had purpose. Watching it, I couldn’t help but think how new additions to either side might’ve fumbled in that chaos, echoing that idea of “not knowing the system yet.” For me, that adjustment phase is what separates good games from unforgettable ones—it’s where surprises happen.

Wrapping up, games like Columbus Crew vs. Cincinnati or Orlando City’s comeback against New England Revolution round out my list, each offering unique sparks—from set-piece brilliance to rookie breakthroughs. Reflecting on this season, I’ve noticed that the most exciting matches often hinge on those human elements: a player finding their feet, a team learning on the fly, or a coach navigating untested lineups. It’s why I lean toward including clashes with evolving rosters; they’re raw, unpredictable, and full of potential. So, if you’re tuning in, keep an eye on those integration stories—they might just define the next classic.