Here are the top soccer stories everyone’s talking about this morning:
Streaking KC
It was an emotional Sunday for Sporting Kansas City defender Ike Opara, who netted the insurance tally in a 3-1 triumph over East leaders New York City FC that gave the Missouri Azzurri three straight home wins for the first time since March.
Back In The Game
Another defender with a special Sunday story was New York Red Bulls defender Damien Perrinelle, who enjoyed a strong return to action after a long injury layoff, coming off the bench to shine in a scoreless draw vs. Portland Timbers.
Hitting Back
New England Revolution striker Kei Kamara was especially delighted to open his Revs account against former employers Columbus Crew SC to cap a 3-1 home win on Saturday.
Back To Life
The Philadelphia Union attack got well fast on Saturday night, sparking a 3-0 victory over D.C. United. Brazilian midfield wizard Ilsinho was the inspiration and star of the show.
In The Nick Of Time
Colorado Rapids boss Pablo Mastroeni praised his charges for being "a special group" after they staged a last-gasp rally for a 2-2 draw at Vancouver.
Same Old Story
The Seattle Sounders suffered a by-now familiar fate in a 1-0 home loss to the LA Galaxy on Saturday. Despite firing 22 shots and creating several chances, the Sounders were shut out at home for the third time in the last two months.
Reds Win, But...
Even though Toronto FC held firm in an Eastern playoff spot by edging Chicago 1-0, Reds star and reigning MLS MVP Sebastian Giovinco is becoming frustrated with his seven-game goal drought.
Could Be Better
Harrison Shipp bagged his first goal for the Montreal Impact on Saturday, but was left wanting after the visitors were forced to settle for a 1-1 share against Real Salt Lake.
All-Star Gazing
The AT&T All-Star Fan XI was revealed on Saturday, with Eastern pacesetters NYCFC and Philadelphia each putting two players in the team. Both Andre Blake and rookie Keegan Rosenberry are thrilled to be repping the Union.
Armchair Sessions
Speaking of All-Stars, Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle offered up three under-the-radar choices for the upcoming coach's picks. Also, he filed his usual weekend review, discussing several players and teams going through struggles.
DD-Bunked
Recovering Montreal star Didier Drogba put up a Twitter video to squash rumors about his whereabouts, and declared he'll be back in action against NYCFC this coming weekend.
Must-Watch Bike
From Friday's action, it was an emotional night in Orlando for the Lions' debutant head coach and the son of former head coach Adrian Heath, who got only his second start of the year. Then there was also this Maxi Urruti bicycle kick, which allowed FC Dallas to stretch their lead atop the Supporters' Shield standings with the best record in MLS.
In The Sunday Papers
An Italian report has Serie A outfit Palermo showing interest in New England attacker Diego Fagundez.
Market Caps
Local reports have Vancouver on the verge of signing a pair of veteran Canada defenders. Meanwhile, the Whitecaps are also busy checking into options to replace departed striker Octavio Rivero.
Digging Your Scene
On Sunday, ground was broken in Kansas City for the new National Training and Coaching Development Center.
Wood Fired
Before jetting off to join his first preseason camp with Bundesliga side Hamburg, US forward Bobby Wood stopped by Dodger Stadium to throw out the first pitch on Sunday.
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