The 2025 MLS is about to begin, and the teams have taken advantage of the preseason to reinforce their squads and arrive in the best conditions for the start of the competition on February 22.
With the arrival of new stars to the league, such as the return of Miguel Almirón to Atlanta United and the debut of San Diego FC, a season full of emotions is expected.
In addition to great additions by Charlotte FC, Chicago Fire, New York Red Bulls and more teams, it promises to be a unique season in the MLS.
Without leaving aside, that Lionel Messi will once again be the great sensation of the Eastern Conference and Inter Miami in 2025.
5 must-watch matches on MLS opening day
5. Seattle Sounders vs. Charlotte FC
The first notable match of the day will be the duel between Seattle Sounders and Charlotte FC, scheduled for February 22. This match will mark the MLS debut of Wilfried Zaha, one of Charlotte FC’s most important new signings.
For its part, Seattle Sounders arrive with high expectations after showing a solid performance in recent seasons. It will be a key match to measure the aspirations of both teams in this new campaign.
4. Columbus Crew vs. Chicago Fire
Another duel that promises great emotions will be the clash between Columbus Crew and Chicago Fire. Columbus Crew, who have dominated in the last five meetings with Chicago with four wins and one draw, will look to start the season with a win.
However, the team will no longer have its former star, Cucho Hernández, which opens the possibility for Chicago Fire to spring a surprise with its new signing, Jonathan Bamba.
3. Toronto FC vs. DC United
The third highlight will be Toronto FC’s debut under the direction of its new coach, Robin Fraser, facing DC United. Toronto will look to take advantage of the leadership of its two Italian stars, Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne, to get off to a good start in MLS 2025.
On the DC United side, the additions have been limited, but players like Kye Rowles could make the difference in a match that is shaping up to be very even.
2. Inter Miami vs. New York City
One of the most anticipated matches will be Inter Miami’s debut, with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez as protagonists. The Florida team will face New York City, which arrives with some important casualties such as Jovan Mijatovic and Christian McFarlane.
This match will not only serve to see the form of LionelMessi and Suarez in 2025, but also to measure the impact of the departures in New York City and its ability to remain competitive in the season.
1. LA Galaxy vs. San Diego FC
Without a doubt, the most exciting match of the first day will be the duel between Los Angeles Galaxy and San Diego FC. The current 2024 MLS Cup champions, LA Galaxy, will have the challenge of starting the defense of their title against the debuting team, San Diego FC.
The San Diego team has its big star, Hirving “Chucky” Lozano, who will look to lead the team in its first official match in the MLS. Meanwhile, LA Galaxy wants to show why they were the champions and secure the three points in this first match, which will be played on February 23.
With these five matches, MLS 2025 promises a spectacular start, with great figures, renewed teams and a lot of excitement from the first minute.
