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We've already seen some American clubs compete in the CONCACAF Champions League, but domestic play begins in earnest when MLS returns on Sunday. This season preview from SB Nation offers a beginner's guide to the league — helpful to those Atlanta United fans who haven't been paying much attention until now — along with questions and answers for each team.
Over at Sports Illustrated, Liviu Bird offers an initial set of power rankings and keys to success for every club, and the entire Planet Futbol staff shares some bold predictions for the 2016 campaign. ESPN FC takes a look at Eastern Conference and Western Conference favorites and determines which club has the highest expectations. And there's a plethora of information at the official MLS website, including looks at the underdogs, contenders, and favorites for each conference.
United States tries to find rhythm in 1-0 win against England [SSFC]
The USWNT picked up a narrow win over its rivals from across the pond in the SheBelieves Cup Thursday night. Crystal Dunn came on as a super sub in the second half and scored a fantastic winner in the 72nd minute.
The Premier League's best and worst teams as mythological creatures [SBN]
This is scientific.
Major League Soccer growth on same course as Premier League - Vieira [ESPN FC]
"I think the MLS is growing up really well," New York City FC manager Patrick Vieira told Omnisport. "I think when you look at the MLS and where it was 10 years ago and where it is now it is growing so fast and it is growing in the right way. The MLS now reminds me of the Premier League when I was there a few years ago."
Arsenal's Petr Cech sidelined for up to four weeks - Arsene Wenger [ESPN FC]
Well, that puts a serious dent in Arsenal's Premier League title hopes.
What's happening in The A?
Hawks vs Lakers preview: Atlanta heads to L.A. in search of a victory [Peachtree Hoops]
Atlanta hopes to bounce back from a tough defeat at the Golden State Warriors. Following Friday night's game against the Lakers, the Hawks return to the Staples Center Saturday night to face the Clippers.