Matchday 5: Every Result, Key Moments & Full Highlights

A recap of the latest action in the 2026 MLS regular season

Mar. 23, 2026 at 1:41am

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Matchday 5 of the 2026 MLS regular season saw a mix of results, with the Columbus Crew unable to hold an early lead, the Philadelphia Union continuing their winless start, and Chicago Fire returning to the win column. Sam Surridge of the San Jose Earthquakes scored a hat trick to take the Golden Boot lead, while Atlanta United and D.C. United played to a scoreless draw.

Why it matters

The early results of the 2026 MLS season are shaping up to be quite unpredictable, with some preseason favorites struggling to find their footing while other teams are exceeding expectations. These Matchday 5 outcomes could have significant implications on the playoff race and individual award races as the season progresses.

The details

The Columbus Crew took an early lead through Wessam Abou Ali's third goal of the season, but were unable to hold on for the win. The Philadelphia Union remain winless after five games, sitting last in the overall league table. The Chicago Fire returned to the win column with a 2-1 victory over the Union, powered by goals from DP forwards Hugo Cuypers and Jonathan Bamba. San Jose's Sam Surridge scored a hat trick to take the lead in the Golden Boot race with seven goals, while teammate Cristian Espinoza added a goal and an assist.

  • Matchday 5 of the 2026 MLS regular season took place on March 23, 2026.

The players

Wessam Abou Ali

A forward for the Columbus Crew who scored his third goal of the season in Matchday 5.

Henrik Rydström

The new head coach of the Columbus Crew, who is still seeking his first win with the team.

Hugo Cuypers

A designated player forward for the Chicago Fire who scored a goal in their 2-1 win over the Philadelphia Union.

Jonathan Bamba

A designated player forward for the Chicago Fire who also scored a goal in their 2-1 victory.

Sam Surridge

A forward for the San Jose Earthquakes who scored a hat trick to take the lead in the MLS Golden Boot race with seven goals.

Cristian Espinoza

A midfielder for the San Jose Earthquakes who contributed a goal and an assist in their latest match.

Miguel Almirón

An attacking midfielder for Atlanta United who was held in check in their 0-0 draw with D.C. United.

Emmanuel Latte Lath

An attacking player for Atlanta United who was also unable to find the back of the net against D.C. United.

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The takeaway

The early results of the 2026 MLS season have been unpredictable, with some preseason favorites struggling to find their footing while other teams are exceeding expectations. The outcomes of Matchday 5 could have significant implications on the playoff race and individual award races as the season progresses.