Seattle Sounders thrashed Sporting Kansas City 5-2 with a hat-trick from Danny Musovski, while Charlotte FC edged past the New York Red Bulls 1-0. Charlotte’s win extends their winning streak to seven games, solidifying their playoff contention. A goalless draw between Toronto and Atlanta United ended playoff hopes for both teams. Musovski’s stellar performance highlights his best-scoring season in MLS.
The Seattle Sounders delivered a dominant performance at home, dismantling Sporting Kansas City 5-2 thanks to a sensational hat-trick from Danny Musovski. Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference, Charlotte FC continued their impressive run of form with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the New York Red Bulls.
The Sounders’ victory was built on a clinical attacking display, spearheaded by Musovski’s three goals. The match began with Kalani Koss-Rienzi opening the scoring for Seattle, but the lead was short-lived as Mason Toye quickly responded for Kansas City. However, Musovski restored Seattle’s advantage just before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive lapse to send the home crowd into a frenzy.
The second half saw Seattle further assert their dominance. Musovski doubled the Sounders’ lead shortly after the restart, showcasing his predatory instincts in the box. The Sounders continued to press, and with 15 minutes remaining, Musovski completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot, sealing a comprehensive victory for his team.
The Moose Is Loose 🥳
Congratulations to Danny Musovski on scoring his first @MLS hat trick! pic.twitter.com/Q0kAf2HJfF
— Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) August 25, 2025
The statistics reflected Seattle’s superiority. They accumulated an impressive 4.0 expected goals (xG) compared to Kansas City’s 1.56, highlighting their attacking prowess. This win propels the Sounders closer to the top of the Western Conference, now trailing leaders San Diego FC by nine points with a game in hand, keeping their playoff hopes very much alive.
In the Eastern Conference, Charlotte FC secured a narrow but crucial victory over the New York Red Bulls. Despite the Red Bulls creating more chances – registering 1.6 xG compared to Charlotte’s 0.52 – Kerwin Vargas’ 30th-minute strike proved to be the difference. The goal came against the run of play, but Dean Smith’s side demonstrated resilience and defensive solidity to hold onto their lead.
Elsewhere in the East, Toronto and Atlanta United played out a lackluster 0-0 draw. The match lacked intensity and creativity, with only three shots on target throughout the 90 minutes. The result effectively extinguished any playoff aspirations for both teams, leaving them to focus on building for the future.
Charlotte’s recent form has been nothing short of remarkable. They have now won seven consecutive MLS games, their longest winning streak in the competition. Furthermore, they have kept a clean sheet in their last four matches, showcasing their defensive strength. Only the Vancouver Whitecaps, with 11 clean sheets, have a better record in the league this season. This impressive run has propelled Charlotte up to fourth in the Eastern Conference, positioning them as a serious contender for a playoff spot.
Danny Musovski’s performance has been a key factor in Seattle’s success. Having previously played for Real Salt Lake and Los Angeles FC, the striker is enjoying his most prolific season in MLS, having scored 13 goals in 24 league appearances. His clinical finishing and intelligent movement have made him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
The MLS season is reaching a critical juncture as teams battle for playoff positions. Seattle’s dominant win and Charlotte’s continued success demonstrate the growing competitiveness of the league. With several weeks remaining, the race for the playoffs promises to be thrilling, with numerous teams vying for a chance to lift the MLS Cup.
