With the international break behind us, it’s time to turn our attention back to club competitions around the world. In the United States, the 2023 MLS Cup playoffs continue this weekend with the start of the Conference Semifinals. As expected, several Brazilians are still in contention for the title.
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Orlando City vs. Columbus Crew – Eastern Conference Semifinal
Orlando City are the team with the most Brazilian representatives in this stage. Center-back Antonio Carlos missed several games due to injury during the year but recovered in time for the playoffs. Left-back Rafael Santos, on the other hand, has been a regular in the lineup and started in both matches of the series against Nashville. Júnior Urso, who arrived in Florida as a free agent from Coritiba in June, usually comes off the bench. The veteran midfielder Felipe Martins, on the other hand, has the least playing time among his fellow countrymen.
FC Cincinnati vs. Philadelphia Union – Eastern Conference Semifinal
FC Cincinnati: Sergio Santos is the Brazilian flagbearer in Pat Noonan’s team, although he doesn’t have much prominence in the starting eleven. The 29-year-old forward played 25 out of 34 possible games in the regular season, starting only 11 times, with four goals and one assist.
Houston Dynamo vs. Sporting Kansas City – Western Conference Semifinal
Houston Dynamo: Brazil is represented here by Micael and Artur. The defender joined the club in February and, following an adaptation period, went on to establish himself in the lineup, starting in 22 games. Additionally, he played the entire series against Real Salt Lake. The 27-year-old midfielder is also a regular in Ben Olsen’s team, with 31 starts in the regular season and a perfect participation in the playoffs.
Seattle Sounders vs. LAFC – Western Conference Semifinal
Seattle Sounders: Brian Schmetzer’s squad has three Brazilians. Joao Paulo plays an instrumental role, reflected by his 31 appearances this season (30 of them as a starter). As expected, he played the entire series against Dallas. Léo Chú is also a regular in the starting lineup, having started in 26 of his 32 appearances, recording five goals and seven assists. Like the midfielder, Chú was a starter throughout the first-round series. Héber had the least playing time, participating in 22 games, 12 of them as a starter.
