The new MLS season is fully underway, and that means it is time to build your ultimate fantasy squad. If you tuned into the recent episode of CBS Sports Golazo’s Numbers Don’t Lie, powered by Sofascore, you saw hosts JD and Nico tackle the ultimate challenge of assembling a winning MLS fantasy team. Using the fantasy section right inside the Sofascore app, they shared top strategies to help you navigate the 100 million euro budget. Building a winning roster takes more than just picking big names. You need a mix of reliable point scorers, smart budget picks, and of course, a little bit of magic.

The rules of the game

To get started in the Sofascore fantasy app, you need to select 15 players consisting of 11 starters and four substitutes. Your squad must include two goalkeepers, five defenders, five midfielders, and three forwards to stay within the budget. Finding value early on is crucial, especially when looking at goalkeepers like Stefan Frei and Andrew Thomas who provide great stability based on recent form. In defense, you earn four points for a clean sheet, but you also get rewarded for clearances, blocked shots, and tackles. Reliable defenders like Jack Elliott of the Chicago Fire can quietly accumulate extra points for your team week after week.

Finding value in the middle

Midfielders are the engine of any good fantasy team, and you need players who impact the game on both ends of the pitch. While goals and assists are great, finding guys who earn points for different actions is the secret to a high overall score. Mark Delgado of LAFC is a prime example of a consistent performer who should be on your radar.

You also have to keep an eye out for players having breakout seasons, like Sebastian Berhalter who is well worth his premium price tag. For a potential differential pick, look no further than Nico Fernandez. He often plays closer to the goal than his position suggests, making him a fantastic X factor when you need a vice captain to step up.

Big stars and smart decisions

When it comes to your forwards, some choices are simply mandatory. Lionel Messi is the obvious centerpiece and a reliable captain choice for almost any game week. To afford a premium player like Messi or goal-scoring machines like Denis Bouanga, you must make smart budget choices elsewhere on the pitch. Tracking player performance is vital, as a star reaching a perfect Sofascore Rating of 10 will undoubtedly bring you massive fantasy returns.

Managing your squad week to week is just as important as the initial draft. You get five free transfers each game week, and any additional moves will deduct five points from your total score. Make sure to use your tokens wisely throughout the season, as features like the Quick Fix, the Rebuild, and the famous Triple Captain can completely turn your season around.

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Assembling the perfect team is a marathon, not a sprint. Take your time analyzing the stats, monitor player form, and do not be afraid to make bold captaincy choices. If you want to challenge the experts, you can build your own team in the app and see if you can beat JD and Nico’s squad, cleverly named Numbers win fantasy. Good luck with your selections, and may your points tally be high this weekend.