MLS Rivalry Week began last weekend, and it did not disappoint. With some great rivalry matchups, it got heated in some contests. Across the board, there was a ton of energy in the stands and on the field, with some dramatic results. The action continues midweek with 13 league matches, and a couple of fierce rivalries take center stage in the East. Let’s discuss the matchups that you should have on your TV on Wednesday.
MLS Rivalry Week continues by bringing the midweek heat
It’s led by the Atlantic Cup, the rivalry of all rivalries.
Vincent Carchietta-USA TODAY Sports
DC United vs. New York Red Bulls
Wednesday, May 15, 7:30pm (MLS Season Pass)
The Atlantic Cup. One of the oldest and still one of the fiercest rivalries in MLS, recently the league has not given it the respect that it deserves. But this is the rivalry that the league hung its hat on for the better part of two decades, and just because other rivalries have been centered in recent years doesn’t mean that DC United-New York Red Bulls isn’t must see TV. It absolutely is, and with both teams starting to find their groove, there will be some physical play and fireworks in this one.
Prediction: DC United hasn’t beaten the Red Bulls since October 2021, with New York going 5-0-1 across league and U.S. Open Cup matches in that time. DC ends yet another winless streak against a conference foe, winning 3-1 at home.
Orlando City vs. Inter Miami
Wednesday, May 15, 7:30pm (MLS Season Pass)
The Turnpike Derby, or as many call it, the Turnpike Tráfico, is fierce, and Orlando hope to play a lot better against rivals Inter Miami than it did back in March. Then, Miami won 5-0 at home powered by braces from Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. Orlando doesn’t want to be embarrassed at home, but Miami is running on all cylinders right now. Can Orlando slow them down, or will Miami once again show they have too much star power for the league to contain them?
Prediction: It’s a closer match, but Miami prevails 3-2.
Philadelphia Union vs. New York City FC
Wednesday, May 15, 7:30pm (MLS Season Pass)
Again, it’s not one of the main rivalries, but these teams do not like each other. The traditional city rivalry between New York City and Philadelphia expands to just about every sport, but add to the fact that these teams really need some points to move up in the standings, and this feels like a match that could present some exciting play. It’s just a matter of whether one of the stars can step up to be the hero.
Prediction: Philadelphia really needs this one, and they get it. It’s a 2-0 victory.
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