Contenders Analysis - 2025 Mls
Visual analysis showing which teams are true contenders (can win the title) or pretenders (may have had a few good wins but will not win the championship) based on their offensive and defensive performance.
Contenders Overview
Defensive Contenders
Strong defense, weak offense - rely on low-scoring games
True Contenders
Strong offense and defense - championship material
No teams in this category
Pretenders
Weak offense and defense - unlikely to compete
Offensive Pretenders
Strong offense, weak defense - inconsistent performers
Legend
Quick Guide
Methodology
- • Teams divided into thirds based on total teams
- • Top third for offense = highest average points for
- • Top third for defense = lowest average points against
- • Quadrants determined by offense/defense tier placement
Quadrant Meanings
- • True Contenders: Strong offense & defense
- • Defensive Contenders: Strong defense, weak offense
- • Offensive Pretenders: Strong offense, weak defense
- • Pretenders: Weak offense & defense
Data Explanation
F: Average points scored per game (offense metric)
A: Average points conceded per game (defense metric)
#: Current ladder position
Teams are categorized based on their performance relative to other teams in the competition. True contenders typically have both strong offensive and defensive capabilities, while pretenders may excel in one area but struggle in the other, or struggle in both areas.