Nashville SC surging ahead of visit from fading LAFC

Field Level Media|published: Sat 16th May, 14:48 2026

Apr 18, 2026; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Nashville SC forward Hany Mukhtar (10) kicks the ball to a teammate during the game against the Atlanta United during the first half at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jordan Godfree-Imagn Images

Nashville SC will be out to build on their Eastern Conference lead when they play host to Los Angeles FC on Sunday night.

Nashville SC (8-1-3, 27 points) entered the weekend atop the Eastern Conference, two points ahead of Inter Miami. One of the stingiest sides around, the club has conceded only eight goals, tied with Seattle for fewest in MLS at the start of Saturday's play.

Like elite teams do, Nashville is getting contributions from everywhere. With central midfielders Eddi Tagseth and Patrick Yazbek sidelined due to injury Wednesday at New England, replacement Bryan Acosta stepped in and delivered two goals during a 3-0 victory.

Both goals Acosta were assisted by Cristian Espinoza, whose acquisition from the San Jose Earthquakes in the offseason provided another dangerous player to go along with Sam Surridge, Hany Mukhtar and Warren Madrigal. The foursome has combined for 20 goals and 15 assists.

Nashville SC coach B.J. Callaghan said Mukhtar, who's been with the club since its first match in 2020, continues to lead the way.

"He's just been so selfless in doing a lot of work to open up the opportunities for other guys," Callaghan said.

LAFC (6-4-3, 21 points) fell 2-1 at St. Louis City SC on Wednesday for their first loss to the four-year old franchise. LAFC owned an 18-7 advantage in shots but got only four toward net and marked poorly in key situations, allowing defenders to log both St. Louis City goals.

First-year LAFC coach Marc Dos Santos said his team is worn down physically from playing twice a week since the season started in late February because of CONCACAF Champions Cup commitments.

"None of our players right now are at 100% and it's just a reality that we're facing," said Dos Santos, whose team is winless over its last four matches across all competitions. "Sometimes, there are moments that are just difficult for a team and don't go your way. Right now, we're in a moment like that."

LAFC forward Hueng-Min Son remains without a goal in 11 league matches (10 starts) this season but does have eight assists.

--Field Level Media

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