MLS 2025 Power Rankings: Messi's Miami Reign Continues, Columbus and Vancouver Chase the Throne

MLS Power Rankings: Matchday 7 Recap

The 2025 MLS season continues to deliver drama, with another exciting weekend of action shaping the league's hierarchy. Here's how all 30 teams stack up after Matchday 7:

Top Tier Contenders

1. Inter Miami CF (↔ No change)
Lionel Messi once again proved decisive with his customary goal in a 1-1 draw against Toronto FC. Despite dropping points, Tata Martino's squad remains the team to beat with their unbeaten streak intact. All eyes now turn to their crucial Concacaf Champions Cup second leg against LAFC.

2. Columbus Crew (↔ No change)
The defending champions showed championship mentality with a 2-1 victory over CF Montreal. Goals from Cucho Hernandez and Darlington Nagbe in the first half hour demonstrated their attacking prowess. The Crew remain MLS's only other undefeated team alongside Miami.

3. Vancouver Whitecaps (↔ No change)
The Canadian side impressed with a composed 2-0 win over Colorado Rapids. What makes this more impressive is they did it while preparing for their own CCC quarterfinal against Pumas. Ryan Gauld continues to orchestrate one of MLS's most dangerous attacks.

Rising Forces

4. San Diego FC (↑1)
Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano announced his arrival in spectacular fashion with a goal and assist in their 3-0 demolition of Seattle. This is the explosive performance fans have been waiting for from the expansion team's marquee signing.

5. Philadelphia Union (↓1)
While their scoreless draw with Orlando wasn't pretty, Jim Curtin will take pride in shutting down MLS's highest-scoring attack. The Union's defensive organization bodes well for their championship aspirations.

Notable Movers

Biggest Rise: Houston Dynamo (↑8 to 24th) - Their first win of the season against LAFC could spark a turnaround.
Biggest Fall: Sporting KC (↓5 to 25th) - The post-Vermes era begins with mixed feelings despite their derby win.

Surprise Package: Minnesota United (↑1 to 6th) - Six matches unbeaten since their opening day loss shows their playoff credentials.
Concern Watch: LA Galaxy (↓2 to 29th) - The defending champions still seek their first MLS win amid CCC distractions.

Key Storylines to Watch

• Concacaf Effect: How will CCC commitments impact Miami, LAFC and Vancouver's league form?
• Eastern Race: With Columbus just behind Miami, the battle for supremacy heats up.
• Western Shakeup: Vancouver leads but San Diego's emergence adds intrigue.

As we approach the season's quarter mark, the table is beginning to take shape while promising plenty more twists ahead.