Nashville SC claimed the top spot in ESPN's latest MLS Power Rankings, displacing LAFC and sending the New York Red Bulls plummeting out of the top five. The Nashville SC surge followed a dominant 5-0 thrashing of Orlando City, highlighted by Sam Surridge's hat trick that extended his Golden Boot lead. This ascent came on the heels of Nashville's crucial Concacaf Champions Cup victory over Inter Miami, where Lionel Messi was eliminated. LAFC held onto second place despite a frustrating 0-0 draw with Austin FC, while the Vancouver Whitecaps slipped to third after a 1-0 home loss to San Jose. Inter Miami climbed to fourth following a 3-2 win over NYCFC, fueled by Messi's equalizer and Micael's winner.

DC United's exit from the top tier was sealed by a 1-1 draw with Atlanta United, their fourth consecutive point-less performance.