Daily Links: MLS Cup is here as Columbus hosts LAFC

MLS News

Columbus or LAFC? MLS Cup 2023 predictions from the experts
It’s difficult to predict MLS, especially when the teams are so close in terms of quality. So, naturally, we turned to the experts for some answers. As it turns out, just like the odds, there is a slight edge toward the home side (6-4).

Columbus Crew vs. LAFC: What will decide MLS Cup 2023?
In one corner you have the defending champs, who have evolved over the past two years from a methodical possession team into an almost pure transition side, one that plays a ruthlessly direct brand of soccer based upon their ability to generate turnovers any and everywhere across the front three and deeper in midfield. In the other corner are the hosts, who are not just more committed to using the ball more than any team that’s made it to MLS Cup in any of the previous 27 editions, but are committed to using it in a different way.

MLS won’t add a fourth designated player post-Messi: Don Garber
On the eve of MLS Cup, MLS commissioner Don Garber issued his annual State of the League remarks and press conference. Although every year’s address begins with a reflection on the past twelve months, 2023’s litany of milestones felt particularly monumental.

Colorado Rapids in advanced talks to sign Zack Steffen from Manchester City
Steffen, 28, joined City from the Columbus Crew in 2019 after starring in MLS, winning the league’s Goalkeeper of the Year award after the 2018 season. He went on several loans after joining City, including at Bundesliga club Fortuna Dusseldorf and most recently with Middlesbrough in the EFL Championship.

US Soccer News

USMNT to face Uruguay, Panama, Bolivia in Copa América group stage
The USMNT will open up group play on June 23rd against Bolivia, with that match taking place at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. They will then head to Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on June 27th to take on Panama. They wrap up the group stage at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City on July 1st, where they will take the field to play Uruguay.

U.S., Mexico submit joint bid to host 2027 Women’s World Cup
Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands earlier Friday put in a joint bid to be the 2027 hosts, while Brazil put forward its bid to world soccer governing body FIFA last month.