Here is everything you need to know about MLS and North American soccer this morning:
On to the Hex one
The US national team finished the job of advancing to the CONCACAF World Cup qualifying hexagonal with a decisive 4-0 triumph over Trinidad & Tobago on Tuesday night. Two-goal man Jozy Altidore earned top marks in our USMNT player ratings, while Armchair Analyst Matt Doyle noted that the home side's overall attacking movements did in the Soca Warriors. Youngster Christian Pulisic stirred the offensive drink throughout the contest, drawing raves from observers of all stripes.
Falling short
Canada's World Cup qualifying dream died hard on Tuesday night, despite a 3-1 win over El Salvador. A 0-0 tie between Mexico and Honduras didn't give Canada a chance.
Wait-and-see approach
The LA Galaxy are still unsure if they can count on recovering strike ace Robbie Keane when they visit Real Salt Lake for a midweek clash (9:30 pm ET on MLS LIVE).
Healed and ready
Didier Drogba leads the group of Montreal players set to return from injury when the Impact host Orlando City on Wednesday night (7:30 pm ET on TSN5 in Canada, MLS LIVE in USA).
Prize package
New York City FC goal monster Frank Lampard has been named MLS Player of the Week for the second time this season, while the Chicago Fire led all clubs by placing three players on the MLSsoccer.com Team of the Week.
TV guide
Major League Soccer has revealed the broadcast schedule for the 2016 Audi MLS Cup Playoffs, with MLS Cup set for a Saturday primetime telecast for the first time in its history.
The race is on
Though Toronto FC ace Sebastian Giovinco is considered a frontrunner in the MVP race at this time, New York Red Bulls stars Sacha Kljestan and Bradley Wright-Phillips are charging into the final turn in our unofficial MVP race rankings.
Give us wings!
Speaking of the Red Bulls, they will need to look to flank replacements when Atlantic Cup rivals D.C. United come calling on Sunday, with both Mike Grella and Alex Muyl serving yellow-card bans.
Net decision
As Toronto FC prepare to return to action this weekend, head coach Greg Vanney must decide who will start in goal: the in-form Alex Bono or returning regular Clint Irwin?
What's up with Deuce?
The Seattle Sounders have happily used the international break to heal some players, but still have no update on star man Clint Dempsey's status.
Trial jury
Local blog The Blue Testament has confirmed reports that Sporting KC will soon take former Juventus Primavera and Real Valladolid midfielder Fausto Rossi on trial.
Dynamic intentions
Houston Dynamo President Chris Canetti gave a weekend interview to discuss several topics regarding the club's future, including what happens next with interim coach Wade Barrett and his desire to find a top-shelf playmaker.
Movin' on up
Meanwhile, both the Houston Dynamo and Real Salt Lake have promoted prospects from their USL affiliates by signing them to MLS deals.
Georgia on my mind
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution continues its series of weighing the pros and cons of a potential DP signing for Atlanta United by looking at Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure. Also, local blog Dirty South Soccer examines what lies ahead for the team in the forthcoming expansion draft.
Young Americans
Though the number of American exports making an impact in Europe has dwindled some in the last couple of years, New York Times scribe Brian Sciaretta writes that several young US internationals are turning that tide.
New camp
With a ceremonial goal from Ronaldinho, La Liga giants Barcelona opened their new US headquarters in New York.
MLSsoccer.com Musts:
ESPN's Jeff Carlisle visits ExtraTime Radio
Armchair Analyst: Jozy Altidore is in the best form of his career
Watch: Andrew Wiebe and Stephen Keel host This Week In MLS
