Global stars look to make their mark in the Eastern Conference as their MLS debuts await.
Griezmann Travels to San Jose Looking to Turn Orlando’s Season Around
For Orlando City SC, the arrival of legendary Frenchman Antoine Griezmann could be the turning point that revitalizes their 2026 season.
Griezmann has won at every level of his career with both club and country, and now he looks to make his mark in MLS like many other global stars. On the field, the World Cup winner’s vision and creativity, especially cutting in from the right side, could lift an area in which Orlando have struggled, ranking near the bottom in goals (1) and shots (25) generate from the right side, according to MLS’ Advanced Analytics.
Orlando will have their hands full as they travel to face the high-flying San Jose Earthquakes (10:30 p.m. ET, Apple TV), but a positive result could mark the start of a turnaround for the Lions in what promises to be a goal-filled matchup.
Lewandowski Eyes Debut Against Inter Miami
Chicago Fire FC's acquisition of Polish superstar Robert Lewandowski was a statement of the club's ambition, and the record-breaking striker could make his MLS debut against reigning MLS Cup champion Inter Miami CF.
After scoring goals in bunches across Europe, Lewandowski's skill and finishing could provide a boost for a Chicago side that has underperformed its expected goals (31.2 xG) with just 27 goals, especially against a Miami defense that has conceded 22 clear-cut chances this season.
With Chicago looking to take the next step, Lewandowski could be the difference-maker when these two Eastern Conference standouts meet tonight at Nu Stadium (7:30 p.m. ET, MLS Season Pass on Apple TV).
MLS at FIFA World Cup 2026 – The Numbers Behind the League’s Historic Showing
FIFA World Cup 2026 highlighted MLS' place among the world's top leagues, as many of the league's 45 players made their mark on the tournament stage.
Compared with leagues outside Europe's top five, MLS ranked first in games played, minutes played, goals scored, assists, and goal contributions. That representation extended beyond the domestic national teams, with MLS players appearing for 17 different countries. That growth was also evident as MLS nearly doubled many of its all-time World Cup records in 2026.
Whether it was global superstars like Lionel Messi, domestic standouts representing the United States and Canada, or players starring for nations across multiple continents, MLS reinforced its place among the world's best leagues.
