MLS week 5 recap: LA Galaxy emerge as contenders, Atlanta United stumble to victory

Over the weekend, MLS wrapped up week 5 of the 2021 season, with phenomenal goals and disappointing performances by some of the greats.

LA Galaxy stunned audiences, while Atlanta United provided the flattest one-goal victory of the season thus far. 

Despite its early nature, rumors have begun swirling on who the conference contenders are and which teams are on the cusp of becoming the dark horse of 2021. These are the highlights from week 5...

LA Galaxy’s 2-0 win over expansion team Austin FC silenced any doubts that the Los Angeles side was merely a fluke. Though their early victories inspired critics to question the longevity of Galaxy’s success, that is no longer the case. 

Sebastian Lletget kicked off the scoring after a long ball from center back Daniel Steres in the 35th minute saw the midfielder perfectly positioned to curl the ball into the net. Chicharito then doubled the scoring after making a strong near-post run and powering home the cross from teammate Julian Araujo. This is the Mexican’s seventh goal this season, extending his lead as top goalscorer. 

This is the Galaxy’s fourth win in five games, challenging the top spot of the Western Conference and proving themselves top contenders.

The Portland Timbers also triumphed this week, edging out the San Jose Earthquakes 2-0. Eryk Williamson adjusted to a new position this week, resulting in a stand out game from the midfielder. Portland head coach Gio Savarese expressed his delight at the player after geniusly upgrading the player to more of a "six in front of the back four, behind two other midfielders."

Teammates Yimmi Chara and Marvin Loria scored, while goalkeeper Logan Ketterer saved a tricky penalty to obtain the clean sheet. Portland desperately needed the win after a less than optimal start to the season. 

The two last minute wins by Atlanta FC and Minnesota FC over the weekend gave a bittersweet tone to the weekend. Viewers expected more from the dominant sides, both who seemed to struggle against their opponents. 

Minnesota FC finally got their second win of the season with a dramatic 1-0 victory over FC Dallas, but the stats failed to convince fans that the suffering is gone. They had 27 shots, although only 7 remained fairly on target. The unexpected stoppage-time goal originally came from a set piece and only found the back of the net after Robin Lod won the rebound and nailed it home. Despite the last minute action, something is still missing from Minnesota on the pitch.

Atlanta United is always considered a strong contender, however, their performance against Montreal inspired heavy doubts. Their attack appeared disjointed, failing to create the dynamic plays and quick counter attacks that fans are accustomed to watching. Atlanta must find a way to reorganize while waiting for star Josef Martinex to regain his best form seen in 2019. 

Sporting Kansas City added thrill to the weekend with a 3-0 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps. Alan Pulido played an integral part in the team’s victory by adding two goals to the scoreboard. Teammate Daniel Salloi kicked off the tally by sliding the ball into the right side of the net. Pulido then secured the win with a successful penalty and a low shot from 16 yards out. Beyond the goals, Kansas City proved they should be taken seriously among the top teams.

The last highlight game of the weekend came as a shock. The Colorado Rapids stunned fans after a goal spell saw the team triumph 3-1 against the Houston Dynamo. After that performance, the Rapids are now considered a dark horse in the Western Conference. The goals were scored in quick succession, never losing their grasp of the situation.