The MLS NEXT Pro record book was tested for the first time this year in Matchweek 18.
Headlining the action, St Louis CITY2's 4-2 win over Austin FC II not only extended their recent dominant run of form, but it also marks the longest winning streak in league history and makes them Team of the Matchweek for the fourth time in 2025.
Budding superstar Cavan Sullivan's latest masterpiece for Philadelphia Union II fueled a gutsy comeback against Chattanooga FC. His efforts earn him his first MLS NEXT Pro Player of the Matchweek honor all-time.
This week’s MLS NEXT Rising Star honor goes to Adrian Mendoza of Crown Legacy FC for his share of the scoring in a rollercoaster 4-3 win at Inter Miami II.
Read more about Matchweek 18’s winners below.
MLS NEXT Pro Team of Matchweek 18: St Louis CITY2
Another week, another win for St Louis CITY2.
With their eighth in a row, this one had historical implications as it set a new record for the most consecutive wins in MLS NEXT Pro history.
Besting Austin FC II 4-2 on Friday, it was no surprise to see 2025 MVP frontrunner Mykhi Joyner leading the way with a brace. Miguel Perez and Wan Kuzain respectively opened and closed the scoring in the big win.
Now eight points clear at the top of the Western Conference table, CITY2 are in a position to focus on locking down a playoff spot.
Matchweek 18 represents their fourth Team of the Matchweek honor after earning it in Matchweek 1, Matchweek 3, and Matchweek 13. St Louis CITY2 were also voted as MLS NEXT Pro's Team of the Month in March and June so far this year, and could be cruising their way to another selection in July.
MLS NEXT Pro Player of Matchweek 18: Cavan Sullivan
Cavan Sullivan added another massive moment to his (latest) breakout season in Philadelphia Union II's 3-3 tie and shootout win over Chattanooga FC on Sunday.
Making the impossible look routine, Sullivan opened the scoring after gracefully eliminating pressure outside the box, opening a narrow window to fire off an audacious attempt at goal, and executed it flawlessly.
A three-goal response from Chattanooga made it feel like Union II were destined to take their second loss of the year. Forward Malik Jakupovic pulled one back in the 84th minute to set the stage for Sullivan to play the hero.
With an equalizer in the 86th minute to mark his first professional brace, the Union Homegrown ensured points at home and went on to take care of his part of the ensuing 6-5 shootout win.
It's been a great month of July for the 15-year-old phenom, who is fresh off the heels of making his starting debut for the Union in MLS last week. Now, he's added his first MLS NEXT Pro Player of the Matchweek honor to his list of 2025 accolades.
MLS NEXT Rising Star of Matchweek 18: Adrian Mendoza
Another youngster making an impact, Charlotte FC Academy midfielder Adrian Mendoza introduced himself with a bang in Crown Legacy FC's 4-3 win on Sunday.
The 17-year-old unleashed a long-range golazo for his first professional goal after an Inter Miami II defender's clearance in the box.
Mendoza had no hesitation seizing the opportunity from outside the box, and went all 90 minutes in the rollercoaster match that ensued after.
Sunday marked his second start of the year. Already showing off his flair for audacious attempts, Mendoza immediately made himself one to watch in this year's crop of Academy talents showing out in MLS NEXT Pro.
