MLS resumes with focus on Lewandowski and Griezmann as Messi sits out
With the Argentine star on leave following the 2026 World Cup final, Chicago Fire and Orlando City look to establish their new stars, while Columbus Crew face FC Cincinnati in the “Hell is Real” rivalry.
Major League Soccer resumes its 2026 season on Saturday, July 25, following a summer hiatus. The return to play shifts focus from Lionel Messi, who is on leave after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, to new signings Robert Lewandowski and Antoine Griezmann. Lewandowski, making his second appearance for Chicago Fire, seeks his first goal against New York City FC. Griezmann, who scored on his debut for Orlando City, faces Nashville SC. Additionally, the Columbus Crew host FC Cincinnati in the “Hell is Real” rivalry, with Cincinnati entering the match following a 4-3 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps. Inter Miami remain the defending champions and favourites for the 2026 title.
On Wednesday, July 22, Robert Lewandowski played 63 minutes for the Chicago Fire in a 3-2 loss to the Messi-less Inter Miami. The Polish striker went scoreless in his debut. In contrast, Antoine Griezmann’s MLS debut for Orlando City was more successful. The 2018 World Cup winner with France scored his first MLS goal three minutes into the second half of a 4-0 victory over the San Jose Earthquakes.
Lewandowski will look to break his duck when Chicago Fire take on New York City FC at Yankee Stadium. Meanwhile, Griezmann and Orlando City face Nashville SC, who are currently leaders in the Supporters' Shield race. The schedule also features Red Bull New York against Charlotte FC, CF Montréal against Inter Miami, and New England Revolution against Atlanta United, among other fixtures across the league.
One of the most significant matches is the “Hell is Real” rivalry between the Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati at ScottsMiracle-Gro Field in Columbus, Ohio. FC Cincinnati enters the contest in the thick of the Eastern Conference playoff race. Their Interstate 71 rivals, the Columbus Crew, are having a difficult season, recording only four wins in 16 league matches.
The Crew’s struggles have led to managerial changes, with Henrik Rydström dismissed on May 17 after just 14 games. Laurent Courtois has been appointed as the interim head coach. The team’s recent form has been poor, including a 2-1 loss to New York City FC on July 22.
According to the latest BetMGM odds, Inter Miami are the favourites to win the 2026 league championship at +333. They are followed by Los Angeles FC and Vancouver Whitecaps at +750, Nashville SC at +800, and FC Cincinnati at +1200. The league has further events scheduled, including the MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte on July 29 and the Campeones Cup in Miami on September 16.
