BJ Callaghan is confident that Nashville SC still has a strong desire to succeed as they head into their final regular-season match against FC Cincinnati this weekend, which mirrors their impressive record.
Nashville achieved a remarkable comeback to defeat the New York Red Bulls 3-2 at GEODIS Park, bringing their points total to 74.
The team matched the MLS record for the most points in one season, tying with Inter Miami’s total in the 2024 season, where they secured the Supporters’ Shield.
After Julian Hall and Rafael Mosquera put NYRB ahead by two goals, Cade Cowell’s missed penalty was followed by Tim Parker scoring an own goal that initiated Nashville’s comeback.
Julian Bazan’s own goal leveled the match for Nashville, and Sam Surridge clinched a dramatic victory with a last-minute goal, giving the team a chance to achieve a unique record against Cincinnati on Decision Day.
“We are consistently striving to be one of the top teams in MLS and North America,” Callaghan remarked following the win over NYRB.
“The performance we’ve had this season reflects our progress in that direction.
“It’s a significant honor for the team to be recognized among the best in MLS history, but they will definitely seek even greater accomplishments.”
A dream 10 years in the making https://t.co/GKILe7KxaD
— Nashville SC (@NashvilleSC) November 3, 2026
Cincinnati secured their playoff berth with a 1-0 victory over the Philadelphia Union, thanks to Ayoub Jabbari’s goal in the 70th minute.
The team appeared at risk of missing the playoffs for the first time in four years after a difficult period from August to mid-October, where they only managed one win in eight matches (D2 L5), leaving them outside the playoff spots in the Eastern Conference.
However, a four-game unbeaten streak has solidified their playoff position, and Pat Noonan noted that the team is peaking at just the right moment.
“It feels like we are building confidence,” Noonan stated. “You can sense it within the team and from the fans.”
“We recognize our potential and understand areas we need to improve. Although we’ve been able to score goals all year, we haven’t won enough close games.”
“The group is starting to display the energy and awareness needed to execute our game plan against opponents.”
“I really like the vibe of the team right now; victories boost that confidence, but it’s also about the collective contributions we’re seeing, which gives me optimism for the final week of preparation against Nashville.”
KEY PLAYERS
Cincinnati – Evander
Going into the last day of the regular season, Evander boasts 14 goals and 17 assists.
With one more goal, he would join Lionel Messi as the only players in MLS history to achieve 15+ goals and 15+ assists in three consecutive seasons.
Nashville – Sam Surridge
Surridge netted his seventh game-winning goal of the season, leading the league in that category after the weekend’s performance.
Since joining MLS in 2023, his 16 game-winners tie him for third in regular season history, behind only Denis Bouanga (24) and Messi (17).
NEVER OUT OF IT https://t.co/ChbLwrEZoX
— Nashville SC (@NashvilleSC) November 1, 2026
PREDICTED OUTCOME: DRAW
Nashville secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Cincinnati in August, marking the largest gap in their matchup history. This was Nashville’s third shutout win against Cincinnati, while the latter has only managed one clean sheet against Nashville (1-0 in March 2023).
The Coyotes achieved their 22nd win of the season last time out, tying for the most victories in the MLS post-shootout era. A win or draw against Cincinnati would grant Nashville the highest points and points per match in a single MLS season.
Cincinnati has recorded two shutouts in their last three games, including a recent 1-0 win, after struggling for clean sheets throughout the regular season.
The team has not managed consecutive shutouts in 2026, having had three and two separate two-game streaks the previous season.
WIN PROBABILITIES
Cincinnati – 35.7%
Draw – 26.1%
Nashville – 38.2%
Fan Take: The anticipation surrounding this matchup emphasizes the competitive spirit of the MLS as teams battle not just for playoff positions but for records and legacy. For soccer fans, witnessing teams like Nashville SC striving for historic achievements adds excitement and depth to the league, fostering a greater appreciation for the sport in North America.
Source: www.soccernews.com
