Nashville SC aims to capitalize on World Cup buzz as MLS season resumes

Coach B.J. Callaghan says the World Cup attention has boosted interest in Nashville SC as Major League Soccer enters the second half of its season. The team entered the break atop the league with 33 points, leading the Eastern Conference with the fewest goals allowed (11) and a +20 goal differential. Nashville remains unbeaten at home (6‑0‑1) and holds an eight‑match unbeaten streak overall. The roster features four All‑Stars—goalkeeper Brian Schwake, defender Andy Najar, midfielder Hany Mukhtar (in his fifth All‑Star appearance) and forward Sam Surridge. The club’s next home match is against Atlanta after a 54‑day pause. In addition, Nashville announced a loan for attacker Elias Saad from Germany’s FC Augsburg; Saad appeared in two of Tunisia’s three World Cup matches and occupies an international roster spot. The club hopes to use the heightened excitement to continue improving its performance for the remainder of the season.