The most fascinating and surprising records in MLS history: incredible facts you need to know

Major League Soccer (MLS) has seen remarkable growth since its foundation in 1993, establishing itself as a professional soccer league of significance in North America. Throughout its history, MLS has been the stage for numerous records and statistics, reflecting both the league’s evolution and the individual and collective achievements of its participants. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most curious and surprising records that have marked MLS history, offering a detailed perspective on the milestones that have shaped the league.

Attendance records: the passion of the fans

Soccer fandom in the United States and Canada has grown exponentially, with MLS witnessing attendance figures that rival those of the world's top leagues.

Record attendance in a single match

On July 4, 2023, the clash between Los Angeles Galaxy and Los Angeles FC, known as "El Tráfico," set a new attendance record for MLS, drawing 82,110 spectators to the Rose Bowl. This milestone surpassed the previous record and demonstrated the growing popularity of soccer in the Los Angeles region.

Average season attendance

In the 2018 season, Atlanta United FC recorded an average attendance of 53,002 fans per match, setting a league record. This achievement showcased the passion of the team’s supporters and its ability to draw large crowds to every game.

Historical scorers: individual feats

MLS has been the stage for standout individual performances, with players leaving an indelible mark on the league’s history.

Top scorer in a single season

In the 2018 season, Josef Martínez of Atlanta United FC scored 31 goals during the regular season, setting a new MLS record. His scoring prowess was pivotal to his team’s success, culminating in their MLS Cup victory that year.

Fastest hat-trick

The record for the fastest hat-trick in MLS history belongs to Harut Karapetyan, who on June 4, 1998, scored three goals in under five minutes for Los Angeles Galaxy in an 8-1 win over Dallas Burn. This feat highlights his speed and precision in front of the goal.

Teams with remarkable streaks

Winning or unbeaten streaks are indicators of a team’s dominance and consistency throughout a season.

Longest winning streak

Los Angeles Galaxy holds the record for the longest winning streak to start a season, achieving 12 consecutive victories in 1996. This initial run laid the groundwork for a successful season and showcased the team’s potential in the league’s early years.

Longest unbeaten streak

Columbus Crew SC recorded the longest unbeaten streak at the end of a season, going 18 matches without a loss in 2004. This consistency solidified their reputation as one of the league's most solid teams during that period.

Records of veteran players and young talents

MLS has served as a platform for both experienced players and young talents seeking to make their mark in professional soccer.

Youngest player to score a goal

At just 15 years and 10 months old, Alphonso Davies became the youngest player to score a goal in MLS on September 14, 2016, while playing for Vancouver Whitecaps FC. His precocious talent later earned him a move to Bayern Munich, where he has continued to thrive.

Oldest player to play a match

Goalkeeper Joe Cannon, at the age of 38 years and 4 months, played a match for Vancouver Whitecaps FC on May 12, 2013, making him one of the oldest players to participate in an MLS game. His longevity in the sport is a testament to his dedication and professionalism.

Attendance records in extreme conditions

Soccer doesn’t stop for weather challenges, and some MLS matches have been held in extreme climatic conditions without dampening fan enthusiasm.

Coldest match in MLS history

On March 12, 2017, Minnesota United FC played their first home match amid a snowstorm, with a kickoff temperature of 19°F (-7°C), the coldest ever recorded in an MLS game. Despite the freezing conditions, fans turned out in large numbers to support their team in their home debut.

Goal records in individual matches

Some MLS matches have seen a flurry of goals, setting records that stand out in the league’s history.

Most goals in a single match

On August 26, 2000, Clint Mathis scored five goals for the MetroStars in a 6-4 victory over Dallas Burn, setting the record for most goals scored by a player in a single MLS match. This outstanding individual performance remains one of the most memorable in league history.

Team records in a single season

MLS teams have set various records over a single season, showcasing their dominance and efficiency on the field.

Most points in a season

In the 2024 season, Inter Miami CF, led by Lionel Messi, set a new record by accumulating 74 points during the regular season, surpassing the previous record of 73 points set by New England Revolution in 2021. This achievement secured them the Supporters' Shield and a spot in the Club World Cup.

Most goals in a season

Los Angeles FC (LAFC) holds the record for most goals scored in a season, with a total of 91 goals during the 2019 campaign.