US Open Cup Round of 32 2026: Multiple Upsets as Four MLS Teams Eliminated

Matchday 7 of the 2026 MLS season delivered drama, late winners, and a clear reminder that no result can be taken for granted in this league.

From Portland ending LAFC’s unbeaten run to Colorado’s goal-scoring masterclass and the New York Red Bulls’ young talents earning a valuable point in Miami — here’s everything you need to know from another exciting weekend.

Portland Timbers 2–1 LAFC: First Defeat for the Western Powerhouses

The biggest upset of the weekend came at Providence Park, where the Portland Timbers defeated LAFC 2-1. Kristoffer Velde opened the scoring, and Kevin Kelsy headed home the winner deep into stoppage time.

LAFC had taken the lead through a stunning debut goal from 17-year-old Jude Terry, but Portland showed greater character and clinical finishing to secure three valuable points and end LAFC’s unbeaten start to the season.

Colorado Rapids 6–2 Houston Dynamo: Goal Fest in the Rockies

Colorado Rapids delivered one of the most dominant attacking displays of the young season, thrashing Houston Dynamo 6-2 at home.

The Rapids were ruthless in front of goal, exploiting Houston’s defensive vulnerabilities. This result significantly improved Colorado’s goal difference and boosted their position in the Western Conference.

Inter Miami 2–2 New York Red Bulls: Youth Takes Center Stage

In the marquee match at the brand-new Nu Stadium, Inter Miami were held to a 2-2 draw by a fearless New York Red Bulls side. Seventeen-year-old Adri Mehmeti scored his first MLS goal to equalize late in the game, while 18-year-old Julian Hall impressed with two assists.

Michael Bradley’s young squad showed real character and quality against a star-studded Miami team.

Other Key Results from Matchday 7

Austin FC 1–2 LA Galaxy – Galaxy continue solid start with road win
CF Montréal 1–2 Philadelphia Union – Union come from behind on the road
Toronto FC 1–1 FC Cincinnati – Cincinnati play most of match with 10 men
Vancouver Whitecaps 2–0 New York City FC – Comfortable win for the Canadian side

Standings After Matchday 7

Eastern Conference (Top 6):

Nashville SC – 16 points
Chicago Fire – 13 points
Inter Miami – 12 points
New York City FC – 11 points
Charlotte FC – 11 points
Toronto FC – 11 points

Western Conference: LAFC remain near the top despite the loss, but Vancouver Whitecaps, San Jose Earthquakes, and now Portland are all breathing down their neck.

Key Takeaways from Matchday 7

Young talent is rising fast — Mehmeti, Hall, and Jude Terry showed real promise this weekend.
Defensive fragility remains a problem for several teams, especially in transition.
Late goals continue to decide matches — stoppage time drama is becoming a recurring theme.
Orlando City are in serious early-season trouble with just 4 points from 7 games.

Matchday 7 once again proved that the 2026 MLS season is wide open and unpredictable. With young academy players stepping up and big teams dropping points, the race for the playoffs is already heating up.