Rivalries, Records and Returns: What to Watch on MLS Matchday 24

Every MLS team takes the field this weekend for a loaded Matchday 24 slate, and MLSsoccer.com highlights three headline clashes across both conferences. Eastern Conference drama leads the way with FC Cincinnati vs. Columbus Crew and Inter Miami CF vs. Nashville SC, before the West wraps things up Sunday as St. Louis CITY SC host the Portland Timbers.

Cincinnati sit atop the Supporters' Shield standings, riding a four-game win streak thanks to MVP-level play from Evander (12g/8a). Fellow newcomer Kévin Denkey (12g/1a) also impressed, scoring in his first "Hell is Real" derby. Columbus, just four points back, are unbeaten in their last four and welcome the return of USMNT breakout Max Arfsten. The spotlight is on DP Dániel Gazdag, who’s yet to score for the Crew and may find the derby the perfect stage to deliver.

Lionel Messi remains unstoppable for Inter Miami, netting four goals in two games since returning from the FIFA Club World Cup. He now holds the MLS record for most consecutive multi-goal games (4). Nashville, on a 12-match unbeaten run, boast a lethal front duo in Hany Mukhtar and Golden Boot leader Sam Surridge (25 goals combined), and captain Walker Zimmerman is back from Gold Cup duty.

Sunday Night Soccer sees struggling St. Louis try to snap a five-match winless streak. João Klauss has scored six of his seven goals since a coaching change, while Portland, fourth in the West, look to All-Star midfielder David Da Costa to lead the way once more after his winner against New England.