Exciting MLS Preseason Kicks Off with New Sunday Night Soccer

The 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) preseason is underway, showcasing thrilling matches as teams gear up for the upcoming season. With the MLS is Back Weekend set for February 22-23, fans are eager to see how their favorite clubs perform in these early contests.

Key Takeaways

• The MLS preseason features several exciting matchups, including draws and come-from-behind victories.
• Apple TV+ introduces "Sunday Night Soccer," a primetime game highlighting the league’s most compelling matchups.
• The 2025 regular season kicks off with all 30 clubs in action during the MLS is Back Weekend.

Preseason Highlights

The MLS preseason has seen a flurry of activity, with teams competing in various locations. Notable matches include:

• Vancouver Whitecaps FC 1 – 1 St. Patrick’s Athletic FC
  A late penalty from Damir Kreilach salvaged a draw for the Whitecaps in Marbella, Spain.
• St. Louis City SC 1 – 0 New York Red Bulls
  Cedric Teuchert’s first-half goal secured a narrow victory for St. Louis in Bradenton, Florida.
• Sporting Kansas City 2 – 3 Charlotte FC
  Charlotte FC staged a thrilling comeback, with Patrick Agyemang scoring twice and Brandon Cambridge netting the winner.
• Minnesota United FC 1 – 1 Real Salt Lake
  A balanced match ended in a draw, with goals from Joaquín Pereyra and Forster Ajago.

Sunday Night Soccer

In an exciting development, Apple TV+ has announced the launch of "Sunday Night Soccer," which will feature a marquee MLS matchup every Sunday evening. This initiative aims to attract a broader audience and enhance the viewing experience for fans.

• First Matchup: The inaugural game will see expansion team San Diego FC face off against the reigning MLS Cup champions, LA Galaxy, on February 23 at 7 p.m. ET.
• Production Enhancements: The broadcasts will include dedicated pre- and postgame shows, enhanced production values, and bespoke graphics in both English and Spanish.
• Accessibility: All Apple TV+ subscribers will have access to these games, making it easier for fans to tune in without needing an MLS Season Pass.

Looking Ahead

As the 2025 MLS season approaches, teams are focused on fine-tuning their rosters and strategies. The preseason matches serve as a crucial opportunity for players to showcase their skills and for coaches to evaluate their lineups.

Additionally, the league is spotlighting young talent, with several American players poised to make significant impacts this season. Fans can expect thrilling performances as teams vie for supremacy in the upcoming campaign.

With the combination of exciting preseason action and the introduction of Sunday Night Soccer, the 2025 MLS season promises to be one of the most engaging yet. Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars for the MLS is Back Weekend and prepare for a season filled with competitive soccer and unforgettable moments.

Sources

• MLS Preseason 2025: Charlotte outlast Sporting KC, St. Louis top Red Bulls | MLSSoccer.com, MLSsoccer.com.
• Apple TV+ Introduces ‘Sunday Night Soccer’ With Weekly MLS Matches – MacRumors, MacRumors.
• Five young Americans poised to break out in 2025 MLS season – Soccer America, Soccer America.
• MLS preps marquee Sunday Night Soccer primetime game for Apple TV+ – SportsPro, SportsPro.
• MLS introducing primetime ‘Sunday Night Soccer’ game | Yardbarker, Yardbarker.