Legendary MLS rivalries: Matches that defined the league's history

Major League Soccer (MLS) has been the stage for clashes that have left an indelible mark on U.S. soccer history. These rivalries not only represent fierce sporting competitions but also cultural and regional showdowns that ignite passion among fans. Here, we explore some of the most epic matchups that have defined MLS.

El Tráfico: LA Galaxy vs. Los Angeles FC

Origins and significance

"El Tráfico" is one of MLS's fiercest rivalries, pitting Los Angeles Galaxy against Los Angeles FC (LAFC). The name refers to the city's notorious traffic and symbolizes the battle for local supremacy. Since LAFC’s introduction in 2018, this rivalry has captured fans' attention for its intensity and quality of play.

Memorable matches

One of the most unforgettable games took place in March 2018 when LA Galaxy came back from a 0-3 deficit to win 4-3, led by Zlatan Ibrahimović, who scored twice, including a stunning long-range strike in his debut. This match cemented the rivalry as a must-watch event.

Impact in the 2024 season

In 2024, the teams faced off in pivotal matches that shaped their standings in the Western Conference. LA Galaxy, led by stars like Riqui Puig and Gastón Brugman, secured key victories on their way to the MLS Cup. Meanwhile, LAFC remained competitive but fell short in crucial moments against their rivals.

Cascadia Cup: Seattle Sounders vs. Portland Timbers

History and rivalry

The Seattle Sounders-Portland Timbers rivalry is one of the oldest and most passionate in American soccer, dating back to the 1970s in the North American Soccer League (NASL). Known as the "Cascadia Cup," it symbolizes the competition between two Pacific Northwest cities and their fervent fan bases.

Iconic matches

In August 2021, the Timbers defeated the Sounders 2-0 at Lumen Field, ending an eight-game unbeaten streak for Seattle and highlighting the intensity of the rivalry. Another memorable clash occurred in the 2018 playoffs when Portland eliminated Seattle in a dramatic penalty shootout, advancing to the Western Conference final.

Developments in 2024

During the 2024 season, both teams maintained their usual competitiveness. Seattle Sounders, with a strong defense and efficient attack, achieved important wins to advance in the playoffs. While Portland Timbers showed flashes of brilliance, they were unable to overcome their rivals in head-to-head matches.

California Clasico: LA Galaxy vs. San Jose Earthquakes

Rivalry foundations

The "California Clasico" pits LA Galaxy against San Jose Earthquakes, two of MLS's most storied clubs. This rivalry reflects the competition between Northern and Southern California and has witnessed numerous thrilling encounters since the league’s inception in 1996.

Standout moments

In the 2003 playoffs, San Jose Earthquakes staged one of the most remarkable comebacks in MLS history, overturning a four-goal deficit on aggregate to eliminate LA Galaxy with a 5-4 final score. This match remains one of the league’s most thrilling.

2024 season

The California Clasico continued to deliver excitement in 2024. LA Galaxy secured significant victories against San Jose Earthquakes on their way to the MLS Cup, showcasing their dominance in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Earthquakes remained competitive but couldn’t derail the Galaxy’s momentum.

Hudson River Derby: New York Red Bulls vs. New York City FC

Birth of a new rivalry

The Hudson River Derby features New York Red Bulls and New York City FC in a battle for supremacy in New York City. Since NYCFC joined MLS in 2015, this derby has grown in intensity and significance, capturing the hearts of fans in the Big Apple.

Significant encounters

In May 2016, New York Red Bulls secured a commanding 7-0 victory over NYCFC at Yankee Stadium, setting a record in the rivalry and the league. This humiliating result further fueled the competition between the two clubs.

Performance in 2024

In the 2024 season, New York Red Bulls exceeded expectations by reaching the MLS Cup final, cementing themselves as a formidable playoff team. Although they didn’t claim the title, their performance stood out. NYCFC, meanwhile, had an inconsistent season, struggling to surpass their local rivals in direct encounters.

Texas Derby: FC Dallas vs. Houston Dynamo

Lone Star State competition

The Texas Derby between FC Dallas and Houston Dynamo symbolizes the soccer rivalry within the state of Texas. Since Houston Dynamo joined MLS in 2006, these matches have been highly competitive, with both teams vying for state pride and the "El Capitán" cannon, awarded to the annual series winner.

Memorable matches

In 2017, Houston Dynamo eliminated Dallas in the playoffs, marking one of the rivalry’s tensest moments. Additionally, a 2-2 draw in 2021, with last-minute goals from both teams, showcased the competitive nature of these clashes.

Key moments in the 2024 season

The 2024 Texas Derby once again captivated MLS fans. FC Dallas, led by standout player Jesús Ferreira, dominated in at least one regular-season match. Meanwhile, Houston Dynamo, with talent like Héctor Herrera and rising star Adalberto Carrasquilla, secured a crucial draw in their playoff hunt.

Hell is Real: Columbus Crew vs. FC Cincinnati

A recent but intense rivalry

The "Hell is Real" rivalry between Columbus Crew and FC Cincinnati has grown in intensity since its inception in 2019 when Cincinnati joined MLS. The name comes from a highway sign connecting the two Ohio cities, symbolizing the passion of their fan bases.

Key moments

In 2020, Columbus Crew earned a decisive 3-0 victory at Mapfre Stadium en route to their MLS Cup title. More recently, in 2023, FC Cincinnati claimed a 2-1 home win, reaffirming their status as strong league contenders.

2024 season: beyond the results

In the 2024 season, both teams displayed a high level of competitiveness. Columbus Crew, known for their possession-based and vertical style, remained a playoff favorite. Meanwhile, FC Cincinnati, led by MVP Luciano Acosta, continued their rise as one of the Eastern Conference’s most formidable teams.