With the 2026 Generation adidas Cup in the rearview, MLS NEXT Pro sides are back to full strength as academy players re-enter the fold. Several made an impact in an exciting Matchweek 6.
Philadelphia Union II brought out their heavy hitters, who lived up to the moment in a dominant 4-1 win over Carolina Core FC, leading to their first Team of the Matchweek selection of the season.
Columbus Crew 2's Zach Zengue led the way with a brace as his side spoiled CT United's inaugural opening day with a strong 3-1 performance, earning Player of the Matchweek.
Representing the Academy side, Vancouver Whitecaps Academy midfielder Carson Rassak came up clutch with a pair of assists to lead WFC2 in a 2-1 win over Cascadia rival Tacoma Defiance, earning this week's MLS NEXT Rising Star selection.
Read more about Matchweek 6's winners below:
Where to begin?
Strikers Malik Jakupovic (1g) and Stas Korzenioski (2g) scored three goals within a 10-minute span in the first half to set up a comfortable win for Union II. Getting some help from the backline, defender Rafael Uzcátegui showed no mercy when he added the dagger in the 63rd minute.
Union II outshot CCFC 17-9 and allowed only three shots on goal in Sunday's matinee matchup.
Making the most of his third start of the season, Zengue notched a brace to bring his side a big win on Saturday.
Up against expansion side CT United in their historic home opener, Zengue calmly finished a hectic opportunity on the break in the 17th minute to give Crew 2 the early advantage. Turning water into wine with his second, Zengue found space in the box in the 40th minute and finessed a looping shot that froze the CTU goalkeeper.
Zengue, 22, signed a first-team contract with Columbus Crew ahead of the 2026 season. The Georgetown alum has enjoyed a hot start with Crew 2, notching three goals in his first five appearances.
Assisting both goals leading to a rivalry win? That's how you make a name for yourself.
Rassak, 17, sent in the equalizing corner for Trevor Wright to even the score in the 68th minute, and was calm in the sixth minute of second-half stoppage time to set up Daniel Ittycheria for the winner for the 2-1 win.
The Academy midfielder looked like a seasoned vet in his third start of the year. Last season, Rassak was good for an assist in 13 appearances, including seven starts.
