MLS Assist — tactical analysis of Major League Soccer

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Joe Lowery and Jordan Angeli serve up analysis of the players, teams, tactics, and trends in Major League Soccer. With match reviews and other insights, Joe and Jordan are here to help make sense of MLS's on-field action.

Recent Episodes
  • Thank you from Joe and Jordan! And goodbye for now -
    Jan 10, 2022 – 08:35
  • What could cause each playoff team's downfall? Plus, digging into MLS Decision Day!
    Nov 9, 2021 – 37:02
  • The Revs clinch the Supporters' Shield! Plus, analysis of the 2-2 draw between Pareja's Orlando City and Arena's New England Revolution
    Oct 25, 2021 – 30:11
  • The East stays crazy, Wilfried Nancy continues to work wonders in Montreal, the Philadelphia Union claw back, and much more
    Oct 18, 2021 – 28:21
  • El Tráfico analysis! Open space galore, lovely possession sequences from the LA Galaxy, LAFC getting out on the break, and much more
    Oct 4, 2021 – 31:25
  • Analyzing Atlanta United's wild 3-2 win over D.C. United: Atlanta get out and run, Luiz Araújo shines, Hernán Losada's D.C. transformation, and more
    Sep 20, 2021 – 26:27
  • Vancouver make their playoff push, Jesús Ferreira scores a wondergoal, RSL take full advantage of FC Dallas' defensive struggles, and more
    Sep 6, 2021 – 26:03
  • What makes NYCFC so filthy good, the Revs miss some of their stars, how to topple the Eastern Conference’s giants, and more
    Aug 30, 2021 – 33:29
  • Analyzing big moves from the MLS transfer window! The Whitecaps get their #10, Colorado elevate their midfield with Mark-Anthony Kaye, Austin and Atlanta make DP signings, and more
    Aug 9, 2021 – 37:06
  • Ricardo Pepi, Carles Gil, Boris Sekulić, the Nashville Contingent, and more players we’re loving in MLS
    Jul 26, 2021 – 28:14
  • Analyzing Minnesota United’s new signings Fragapane and Hunou, what led to the end of Seattle's undefeated streak, and much more
    Jul 19, 2021 – 26:56
  • Is Venezia a good spot for Tanner Tessmann, what's up with D.C.'s Andy Najar experiment, how do the Sounders keep Soundering, and more listener questions
    Jul 12, 2021 – 41:40
  • SKC strut their stuff, Bob Bradley goes back to the 3-5-2 for LAFC, 3-at-the-back shapes are taking over MLS, and more
    Jun 28, 2021 – 32:31
  • Columbus look like themselves as they close out Historic Crew Stadium in style, Brian Gutiérrez may be a star in the making, and more
    Jun 21, 2021 – 28:12
  • Fullbacks ready to go full Nouhou and play center back, RBNY's progression under Struber, MLS players to watch at this summer's international tournaments, and much more
    Jun 14, 2021 – 33:17
  • Fixing MLS's bottom-dwellers, USMNT vs. Mexico talk, how to increase your team's speed of play in possession, and much more
    Jun 7, 2021 – 31:13
  • Nouhou’s center back transformation, Rubio Rubin answering RSL’s questions at the nine, Leon Flach running all day, and more standout players from the start of the MLS season
    May 24, 2021 – 31:19
  • What does Cade Cowell bring to the Quakes, what's going on with Toronto FC's attack, how is Moses Nyeman doing for D.C., and more listener questions
    May 10, 2021 – 34:39
  • Inter Miami’s balance under Phil Neville, Higuain’s Rooney role, Hernán Losada’s fitness demands and aggressive style with D.C., and much more
    May 3, 2021 – 30:00
  • Galaxy vs. RBNY analysis: Chicharito does his thing, Víctor Vázquez pulls the strings, Red Bull gives you wings, and much more
    Apr 26, 2021 – 30:37
  • How does Josh Wolff’s Austin FC team play? Inside the tactics of MLS’s newest team
    Apr 19, 2021 – 28:40
  • Western Conference Very Specific Predictions: David Ochoa breaks out for RSL, San Jose stays crazy, Josh Wolff inverts his fullbacks, and much more
    Apr 12, 2021 – 39:58
  • Eastern Conference Very Specific Predictions: Lucho boosts Cincinnati's creativity fivefold, NYCFC sells Sands, Gary Smith's Nashville become the best defensive team in MLS, and more
    Apr 5, 2021 – 34:16
  • Breaking down new MLS signings! What does Cecilio Domínguez bring to Austin? How does Alan Franco fit in Atlanta? Plus, analysis of newcomers in Portland, Vancouver, and LA
    Mar 29, 2021 – 31:49
  • Analyzing MLS’s newest offseason signings: what to expect from Brenner in Cincinnati, Pochettino in Austin, Sosa in Atlanta, Martinez in Dallas, and Gregore in Miami
    Mar 15, 2021 – 31:55
  • Should Vlatko use Crystal Dunn like Bob Bradley uses Latif Blessing, who's in our "press-resistant" back three, is Carles Gil an MVP candidate, and more listener questions
    Mar 8, 2021 – 39:25
  • MLS's up-and-coming talent: Caden Clark, Efra Álvarez, George Bello, and more Americans youngsters that we're watching in 2021
    Feb 22, 2021 – 37:24
  • A guide to soccer’s version of WAR, plus how MLS teams should be trading their assets w/Sam Goldberg
    Feb 8, 2021 – 29:49
  • What are Pomykal and Busio’s best positions, how do the Sounders adapt without Jordan Morris, do the Houston Dynamo and Vancouver Whitecaps have tactical styles, and more listener questions
    Feb 1, 2021 – 37:21
  • Analyzing MLS's newest coaches! What to expect from Heinze in Atlanta, Losada in D.C., Wolff in Austin, and Neville in Miami
    Jan 25, 2021 – 37:47
  • MLS Offseason Roundup: Jordan Morris to Swansea? New coaches! Austin FC's roster, Molino and BWP to the Crew, and more
    Jan 18, 2021 – 42:21
  • Lucas Zelarayan and Aidan Morris shine, Caleb Porter's smart gameplan, Seattle's late push, and more from MLS Cup
    Dec 14, 2020 – 33:48
  • Lodeiro vs. Reynoso in Seattle, a set piece seminar, the Crew's complete performance, and so much more from the Conference Finals
    Dec 8, 2020 – 41:02
  • Reynoso and Molino steal the show in Kansas City, the Seattle Sounders stay strong, and so much more from the Western Conference semifinals
    Dec 4, 2020 – 38:24
  • Carles Gil is a wizard, Caleb Porter and Gary Smith battle it out, and so much more from the Eastern Conference semis
    Nov 30, 2020 – 34:59
  • Smart gameplans from Gary Smith and Bruce Arena, Seattle's Big 3 shine bright, and plenty more from the latest MLS playoff action
    Nov 25, 2020 – 52:09
  • Playoff analysis! Bruce Arena vs. Thierry Henry, SKC's bonkers win over SJ, Reynoso and Molino dominating, and so much more from the MLS playoffs
    Nov 23, 2020 – 01:10:49
  • MLS Playoff Preview! Does Michael Bradley fit in TFC’s midfield? Lodeiro vs. Atuesta, playmakers galore, and much more
    Nov 16, 2020 – 50:58
  • Decision Day analysis! Columbus’ crazy passing, Vela’s return, and much more from the final regular season weekend
    Nov 9, 2020 – 54:56
  • Gary Smith’s effective route one soccer, Columbus breaking Philly’s press, the Rapids’ statement win, and much more from the latest MLS action
    Nov 2, 2020 – 55:21
  • The No. 10’s success in MLS, Philadelphia’s dominant win, LAFC’s test, and tons more from the latest MLS action
    Oct 26, 2020 – 52:50
  • Daryl Grove is the man. Also, analysis of USMNT prospect Caden Clark, Thierry Henry’s smart gameplan, tactical triangles, and more
    Oct 19, 2020 – 59:10
  • MLS analysis with Stu Holden: Aaronson’s best position, what to expect from Gerhard Struber, Ben Olsen out of D.C., and tons more!
    Oct 12, 2020 – 39:06
  • Galaxy-sized problems in LA, a tactical battle between Luchi Gonzalez vs. Caleb Porter, throw-in woes, and more from the weekend’s MLS action
    Oct 5, 2020 – 59:21
  • Raphaël Wicky turning Chicago into Spain, Gonzalo Higuain’s debut, transfer talk, and much more w/Tom Bogert!
    Sep 28, 2020 – 45:00
  • Who are the best subs in MLS? What does Cole Bassett do? Should Ben Olsen still be coaching D.C. United? And many more listener questions
    Sep 21, 2020 – 51:39
  • Nani’s nutmeg, Miami’s smart structural switch, beautiful team goals, and so much more from this week’s MLS action
    Sep 14, 2020 – 50:30
  • Armas out, Pity (reportedly) out, Reynoso in, and loads more from a busy week in MLS
    Sep 7, 2020 – 55:03
  • Daryl Dike's dominance, Philly's press resistance, "FC Cincinnati-ing it" and more from the latest week of MLS
    Aug 31, 2020 – 51:03
  • Nagbe's stunner, the Galaxy's game plan, Atlanta's setup under Glass, and tons more from MLS's resumed regular season
    Aug 24, 2020 – 51:56
Recent Reviews
  • The_Buj
    MLS insight at it’s finest
    If you’re a fan of MLS and want a deeper dive into the tactics and oddities that that MLS great, you’ll love Joe and Jordan! Jordan is a former player with a lot of tactical experience and Joe is a keen observer and together they serve up those sweet sweet tactical nuggets on a platter for the common man. Thy are seem like maybe the two nicest human beings ever that have somehow found themselves on the same pod together. Do yourself a favor and subscribe!
  • OttoSaab
    This is my favorite podcast
    It is so insightful and analytical. Keep up the good work y’all!
  • AllNicknamesAreBelongToMe
    Amazing insight
    I’m still learning how to watch soccer on a deeper level and the analysis on this podcast can’t be found anywhere else! Each week they take an interesting storyline and break it down with great visual explanations. Keep it up!
  • Craiton A
    Favorite MLS Pod
    Joe and Jordan do a great job providing an unbiased, tactical analysis of MLS and it’s players. The episode length doesn’t drag on and it really feels like they get the most out of each episode. They both have a bright future covering the game and league.
  • Apparently818
    Best MLS pod out there!
    Highly recommend this pod! I always feel well informed and up to date with everything MLS! Ready for the new season thanks to you two!
  • hogwash13777
    Stay up to date with the MLS
    Great pod reviewing the top news, tactics, and games from the MLS so you’re always updated. They do tend to focus on the trendy teams or bigger players, but that is with any sports pod or show. They’re so smart and knowledgeable and so clearly love covering the MLS, it makes this pod worth your time if you’re a MLS or soccer fan.
  • RedCule94
    Great MLS Pod
    This is a great MLS pod where I learn about the league and tactics a lot.
  • Slight full
    Smart soccer pod
    Most interesting mls podcast.
  • @RealMattSears
    Good and getting better
    Two people who love to break down the X’s and O’s of MLS. They do a great job. Good tactical breakdown of each game. As the show progresses, I see them touching on not only specifics but also general overviews which I personally welcome. They both get the details very fine but I think their own personal opinions of the clubs/league/players is the way to go in the end. Either way, top job from both Jordan and Joe.
  • BenRuby99
    Nice
    Your too nice to each other it comes off as condescending not the mutual respect your striving for
  • ilk lo by til
    excellent!
    great pod!!! serious, fun, respects the game and the players with positive focus while maintaining critical amalysis, well done! puts me at ease when compared to the avg. pods that just complain about the game and players--way to be ! showing an alternative to how we can analyse with tearing people down --thank you:)
  • RJR1970
    Amazing Show Focused on Major League Soccer
    Love the chemistry between the two hosts. Very focused on describing the tactics of play for Major League Soccer games. Hosts are able to explain how games were played, and for listeners to understand why games played out as they did. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to understand soccer better.
  • Georgiefairplay
    Must Listen for all MLS fans!!!
    Hands down best MLS tactical breakdown. Joe and Jordan are terrific.
  • dbeff123
    Great show
    This is the easily the best MLS podcast out there if you are interested in tactical analysis.
  • carroll e
    In depth
    These two give an in depth analysis of the strategy and execution of good play in the mls. They have greatly enlightened me and increased my understanding of the game!! KUDOS 👍 The most recent pod I found particularly enlightening. I had watched two of the three matches that were discussed, analyzed and rightfully dissected. It really makes me more critically watch the soccer and note the takes. I also enjoy Jordan’s work with the crew telecasts.
  • Zuriel Casillas
    Genuinely appreciated addition to the mls sphere
    I love this show! I’m very thankful for what it’s genuinely added to my weekly/daily diet of mls soccer. It’s not just another show to listen to, instead mls assist adds to the fans’ knowledge and appreciation for this really fun league! Not to mention they don’t do it in a way that will put me to sleep! I always look forward to Monday’s because in between classes (go bears!!) I get to enjoy some intellectually and personally stimulating soccer conversations :) much love
  • No folders
    They get it!
    There’s this huge tendency to only review the tactics of more prominent leagues and look at individual players in leagues like the MLS. This podcast is fantastic and give the Tactical Tidbits of the MLS in all of the fantastic ways that the league deserves. We have great coaches and tactically interesting teams that deserve the full attention that MLS Assist gives them. Great great great work ❤️
  • J5BL
    Must listen
    Love the show and the continuous knowledge drop. One think I would like to see is , you guys need a YouTube channel with play diagrams. Continue the hard work and thanks
  • Hattiehein
    Great fun tactical talk
    Fun smart funny, well-produced MLS breakdowns!
  • ToasterGhost
    Great show!
    A great show for keeping up on what’s going on in MLS.
  • Char191919
    Best soccer tactics podcast
    Most acute football analysis podcast I’ve encountered MLS or otherwise. VAMOS ORLANDO
  • RAK Sports
    Watching MLS for tactics
    This is a great show! I’ve listened to Joe and Jordan from the beginnings of this podcast as part of the Total Soccer Show to now being on their own with the Athletic and I have to admit they have changed the way I watch MLS. I get hyped for matches that I would not have cared about in any way. Plus, as a Timbers fan, I love the analysis about the boys in green! Highly recommend this show. Joe and Jordan are great together and listening to the development of their chemistry on air has been super fun. Keep doing great work you two!
  • ThisisPhil
    Dynamic Duo
    Jordan and Joe offer detailed and insightful analysis while maintaining an approachable vibe that avoids the “I’m the smartest person in the room” vibe that some analysts get tangled up in. It’s also rare to find MLS commentary that doesn’t feel at times like a commercial for the league or hipster-like panning. J&J strike a balance of critique and praise of the quality of play. Their previews and post-match analysis give folks tools that add depth of understanding to their own enjoyment of watching the beautiful game. I would LOVE to see these two conduct interviews with major MLS personalities (supporter group leaders players, coaches, front office, COMMISSIONERS, agents, etc.) Keep up the great work!
  • gerardo-guzman
    Vámonos
    Great show, highly recommended
  • JarrodFromIowa
    This perspective has been missing in MLS pods
    They cover the tactical side very very well
  • jscibelli
    Best MLS is Back Pod
    If you want to stay updated on the MLS is Back tournament, look no further! This is the best one
  • Tidytrout
    Great MLS tactics
    Been looking forward to a tactical review focused on only MLS. This provides great insights.
  • alogatom
    Helping to better understand the game
    Appreciate greatly the opportunity to learn more about the idiosyncrasies and tactics of the game thank you you all doing well in your marathon of shows. Keep them coming! And thank you
  • Liljon2526
    Just what I needed
    These two are fantastic! Really enjoy the recaps and breakdowns of the games they review. They hit the highlights right away and make this podcast very enjoyable and quick to listen to!
  • invested critic
    Solid show, poor game specific analysis
    I am glad that the show has been given its own feed. They have been doing a great job of summarizing the games, and provide a great recap of all the games/ news going on for the MLS is back tournament. I cannot give the show 5 stars however due to their woefully poor coverage of MNUFC vs. SKC game. They got the player’s names wrong (ETHAN Finlay), as well as the team’s formation (4-2-3-1, not 4-4-2). They also missed the fact that the shift in momentum came after a sub, and it seemed that the analysis of Minnesota was lacking compared to SKC. Pulido is very, very good and looked the part. He tore MNUFC’s defenses apart, but the coverage made it seem like SKC just rolled over due to fatigue. SKC’s decline appeared to be caused by Vermes’ decision not to make more subs As well as the offensive substitutions from Minnesota. It was obvious that the Minnesota players were clearly flagging as well, but their lack of efficacy in any way prior to the substitution at forward overshadowed any nuanced discussion of tactics for the sake of this podcast. Zero discussion of the first use of VAR in the tournament seems like malpractice as well- especially since it disallowed a goal for Minnesota, which would have changed the dynamics of the game completely. I know that this podcast was put out very late in the night, but the analysis for that game was just poor.
  • Russell V.
    FINALLY
    For years, I have yearned for a show that looks into the tactical and analytical side of MLS, and Joe and Jordan give you that in short, bite-sized episodes. American soccer analysis needs more shows like this, and this show has done a good job setting the bar.
  • Drew2169
    Top notch
    This podcast is amazing! If you need updates on your MLS games/team this is the place! Joe and Jordan do an outstanding job! 👍👍
  • Gabeygoat
    Hosts are awesome
    I’m only half way through the first (to me) episode, and it’s exactly what I wanted. Good analysis and appreciation for the fun of the game.
  • This One Is Gold
    MLS, Tactics, Fun
    MLS deserves to credit Jordan and Joe an assist because they make MLS more fun
  • mfd111bennett
    Great new mls specific podcast
    Great new mls soccer specific podcast. All soccer - no fluff. Hosts have a fun chemistry, like listening to two friends talk about my favorite league. Keep up the great work!
  • frīck
    Great MLS content
    Joe and Jordan have been doing a fantastic job, especially considering how much content they’ve come up with during covid 19.
  • Addicted 2027
    A must for MLS fans and more.
    These two are awesome! Great MLS content. Every time.
  • Dannnnnny K.
    Tactical Depth
    This podcast delivers the tactical depth and player-base knowledge missing from the typical soccer podcast that covers MLS. You will always learn something new about your team or the team your team is trying to beat.
  • ajcooke
    Like a pickle in a humburger
    Do you know that feeling of biting into a delicious humburger? The first bite you taste the juicy patty and get a bit of the glutenous bun, the second you start to add in the flavors of the sauces you have added, but that third bite...that third bite is magical because you get to the pickle! You know it’s coming every time but still the sensation is somewhere between surprise and joy when you feel that pickle snap between your chompers. That feeling right there, that’s this podcast and that is why it’s so good.
  • pæ tɹɪk dʒoʊnz
    Rising stars
    What I find most refreshing about Jordan and Joe’s podcast is how authentically enthusiastic they are about every detail—like they are nerdily excited about the smallest considerations and it makes my heart smile. Their enthusiasm makes me excited about the nuances of the teams and the league itself. I didn’t go in thinking I’d be super into the content, but Joe and Jordan hooked me, and I’ve listened to every episode.
  • Nessienessa
    Nice new show
    A great new MLS specific show that gives you a different breakdown for many teams. The two hosts do a great job bouncing off each other. Let’s watch them grow together.
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