MLS Week 3 Highlights: Top Players and Performances
The third week of the Major League Soccer (MLS) 2025 season brought a series of remarkable performances, shedding light on potential contenders for the title. The weekend was packed with thrilling action, notable individual achievements, and key developments across various teams.
Standout Performers
Several players made a significant impact this week, with Albert Rusnak of the Seattle Sounders being a leading candidate for Player of the Week. He delivered an impressive performance, contributing one goal and two assists in the Sounders’ dramatic 5-2 victory against LAFC. In a different match, Portland Timbers goalkeeper James Pantemis showcased his skills by saving two penalties during a challenging game against Nashville SC.
Team of the Week
Goalkeeper
James Pantemis, Portland Timbers: Despite a 2-0 loss against Nashville SC, Pantemis’ remarkable achievement of saving two first-half penalties places him among MLS legends. He is now only the second goalkeeper in league history to achieve this feat since Tony Meola in 2002. Pantemis made ten saves, demonstrating resilience behind a struggling defense.
Defenders
This week’s selection of defenders was particularly challenging, marked by several left-backs excelling in their roles. The chosen defenders include:
- Andrew Gutman, Chicago Fire: Gutman’s goal and constant support in offensive plays helped the Fire complete a comeback against FC Dallas. His involvement was critical in Coach Gregg Berhalter’s strategy as he recorded 61 touches throughout the match.
- Andy Najar, Nashville SC: Najar played an integral role in Nashville’s win over Portland, contributing both defensively and offensively by scoring a goal from four shots, a standout stat among defenders.
- Olwethu Makhanya, Philadelphia Union: Makhanya’s outstanding defensive display against New England included three tackles, ten clearances, and five interceptions, highlighting his importance in the Union’s solid start to the season.
- Noah Allen, Inter Miami: Allen anchored Miami’s defense effectively, even after a red card had them down to ten players. His performance was vital in securing a victory without their star player, Lionel Messi.
Midfielders
In the midfield, several players rose to the occasion:
- Albert Rusnak, Seattle Sounders: Making an impact off the bench, Rusnak scored one goal and assisted two others in a thrilling match against Los Angeles FC, earning both team and player of the week honors.
- Jovan Lukic, Philadelphia Union: Lukic’s first goal for the Union was complemented by several key plays, contributing significantly to the team’s performances overall.
- Anders Dreyer, San Diego FC: Dreyer stepped up in the absence of Hirving Lozano by scoring the go-ahead goal and creating five chances against Real Salt Lake.
Forwards
Leading the attack, the forward selections highlighted the following players:
- Paul Rothrock, Seattle Sounders: Rothrock not only contributed defensively but also helped secure victory with a goal and an assist, emphasizing his well-rounded game.
- Hugo Cuypers, Chicago Fire: Cuypers, a contender for the Golden Boot, scored his third goal of the season while assisting on another, proving essential for the Fire’s success.
- Tai Baribo, Philadelphia Union: Baribo leads in goals scored after three matches, tying a record set in 1999 with six goals, positioning him firmly at the top of the Golden Boot race.
As the MLS 2025 season progresses, these player performances have set the stage for an exciting year ahead, highlighting talent and competitive spirit across the league.