MLS Matchday 15 Preview: California Clash, Messi's Test in Philly, Atlanta Under Pressure

Matchday 15 of the MLS season promises high drama and shifting narratives across the league. As reported by MLSsoccer.com, three matchups stand out: San Diego FC host LA Galaxy in a budding California derby, Inter Miami look to regroup in Philadelphia, and Atlanta United face a critical test at home against FC Cincinnati.

Saturday's early spotlight falls on Snapdragon Stadium, where San Diego FC welcome the winless LA Galaxy. The expansion club shocked the league on opening day with a 2-0 win over their SoCal rivals and have since climbed to third in the West. Key to their success are DP stars Anders Dreyer and Chucky Lozano, who have combined for 10 goals and 12 assists. LA, meanwhile, showed signs of life in a 2-2 El Tráfico draw, sparked by a Marco Reus brace.

Later that evening, the Philadelphia Union host a struggling Inter Miami. Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez were powerless in their recent 3-0 loss to Orlando, extending a poor run of just one win in seven. "Now we’ll see if we’re really a team," Messi stated postmatch. Philadelphia, under Bradley Carnell, lead both the East and the Supporters' Shield race, with Golden Boot leader Tai Baribo (11 goals) leading the charge.

Sunday night sees Atlanta United seeking to reverse a dismal run against high-flying FC Cincinnati. The Five Stripes haven’t won in eight and recently fell at home to Philly. Cincinnati, on the other hand, are surging thanks to club-record scorer Kévin Denkey and MVP hopeful Evander, and currently sit second in the league by points per game.