MLS NEXT Pro Matchweek 2 featured a second-straight win for Ventura County FC, the first two league goals of 2024 for New York Red Bulls II standout Ibrahim Kasule, and a memorable moment for Orlando City B’s Justin Ellis.
Here's a look at the top performing player, team and Rising Star of Matchweek 2.
MLS NEXT Pro Team of Matchweek 2: Ventura County FC
Ventura County FC made it back-to-back MLS NEXT Pro victories and three overall in all competitions to begin the 2024 season on a positive note.
The Western Conference earned a 3-1 road win on Sunday over Sporting KC II, earning MLS NEXT Pro Team of Matchweek 2 honors. Aaron Bibout, Jonathan Perez, and Gino Vivi all found the back of the net for VCFC, who moved to third place in the Western Conference on six points.
VCFC are one of four MLS NEXT Pro sides that are a perfect 2-0-0 so far this campaign, which has been a positive turnaround from 2023.
MLS NEXT Pro Player of Matchweek 2: Ibrahim Kasule - New York Red Bulls II
Ibrahim Kasule has picked up in 2024 where he left off in 2023.
The Ugandan international scored his first two league goals of the season on Sunday in New York Red Bulls II’s 4-3 shootout win over Inter Miami II. Kasule, who assisted twice in a season-opening victory, found the back of the net in a 16-minute span in the second half.
Kasule would also step up and score from the penalty spot after the team were level at 3-3 through regulation.
The 20-year-old remains one of the top talents in MLS NEXT Pro and now has three goals and two assists in three combined appearances this year.
MLS NEXT Rising Star of Matchweek 2: Justin Ellis - Orlando City B
Friday marked a memorable night for Orlando City B’s Justin Ellis.
Ellis scored his first MLS NEXT Pro goal in OCB’s 4-3 shootout victory over Huntsville City FC. The 16-year-old academy player has forced his way into the plans for OCB this season and delivered a positive outing at Joe Davis Stadium on Friday night.
Ellis’ 36th minute finish helped Manuel Goldberg’s squad fight back on the road. He also won two duels, completed two tackles, and made five recoveries in his 78-minute outing.
Ellis will be a young talent to keep an eye on this season after scoring in his second MLS NEXT Pro appearance.
