With just four weeks remaining in the season, the upcoming Double Game Week presents a significant opportunity for players to rack up points. Although only four teams have two home matches, and the matchups may not be thrilling, substantial points are on the line. This week will be crucial as players aim to improve their standings, and it’s important to finalize lineups before the Wednesday deadlines.
Injury updates highlight two crucial absences: Hector Herrera is sidelined for 2-3 weeks due to a hamstring injury, and Walker Zimmerman is questionable due to illness. Several key players are also facing suspensions, including Driussi, Hines-Ike, and Valencia from Austin, O’Brien from LAFC, Aviles and Busquets from Miami, Elliott from Philadelphia, and Arango and Katranis from Real Salt Lake.
Additionally, a number of players are on Yellow Card Warning, including Brooks Lennon, Asier Illaramendi, and Diego Chara, among others. It’s also worth noting that five teams will play midweek next week, which could lead to rotations, particularly for LAFC and Vancouver.
For teams looking to fill in their rosters with solid options, DC plays the latest single-match game this week on Sunday, making them a flexible choice for spots like Jeahze, Birbaum, and Antley. Seattle has a Wednesday-only game and might be a good option with players like Hawkins or Lopez.
As for rankings this week:
Goalkeepers: Patrick Schulte, Pedro Gallese, Steve Clark
Defenders: Steven Moreira, Rudy Camacho, Sean Zawadzki, Justen Glad, Aaron Long, Micael dos Santos, Jordi Alba (if starting)
Midfielders: Riqui Puig, Djordje Mihailovic, Hany Mukhtar, Mateusz Bogusz, Robin Lod, Marco Reus, Carles Gil, Lucho Acosta, Ryan Gauld, Amine Bassi
Forwards: Leo Messi, Cucho Hernandez, Denis Bouanga, Luis Suarez, Gabriel Pec
The Week 27 schedule includes several matchups worth noting. Significant pairings like Atlanta facing Miami and LAFC going up against Austin highlight the potential for point collection. Teams will need to navigate their midweek games carefully, particularly those involved in qualification or cup competitions.
As for defensive strategies, targeting Columbus would be wise due to their strong defense and favorable matchups. Real Salt Lake also presents opportunities, having two home games against lower-ranked teams. LAFC and Houston demonstrate solid potential; however, there are concerns about rotations affecting their lineups.
Midfielders like Riqui Puig and Djordje Mihailovic have favorable matchups against Toronto and could be prime candidates for point accumulation, while players like Hany Mukhtar and Mateusz Bogusz remain key figures as well.
At forward, Leo Messi stands out as a must-have regardless of past performances. Players like Cucho Hernandez, Denis Bouanga, and Luis Suarez are also worth monitoring, especially with their current form.
In terms of captaincy, Messi is the safest choice, followed closely by Riqui Puig and Djordje Mihailovic, who have been consistent in their performances lately.
As the season heats up, players will need to ensure they leverage these key matchups and player statuses to maximize their scoring potential.