Power Rankings never cease to spark outrage. But here at Backheeled? We’re not here to cause anger. No, we’re here to dissect the latest performances, trends, tactics, and news for each of MLS’s 30 clubs. Every week during the MLS season, Ben Wright will guide you through the Eastern Conference teams and Joe Lowery will do the same for the West.
Okay, fine. We’re also here to spark some outrage, because we’re ranking all 30 teams, too. Power Rankings are based on each club’s average position across Ben and Joe’s individual rankings. Onwards.
1. Inter Miami
Trending: No change
“Miami continue to win games by sheer grit and individual moments. It seems unsustainable, but it’s been sustainable for two years at this point. With or without Messi, this team finds ways to win every week, and they will make you pay for every moment you give them.”
Oh wait, you thought this was about Miami’s 2-1 win over Philadelphia? No, I wrote this two weeks ago after their win over Atlanta. No matter the opponent, the Herons find ways to get the job done. On Saturday, it was Robert Taylor coming back into the lineup and opening the scoring and then Oscar Ustari standing on his head until Lionel Messi could come on in the second half and win the match. Rinse and repeat.
One tactical note from this: Javier Mascherano tweaked his system into a back three, with Ian Fray operating as a right center-back while Robert Taylor and Benja Cremaschi took turns in the right wingback space.
