With seven matches left to play in the 2026 MLS regular season, Nashville SC are rolling. The Boys In Gold are on top of the table, with a 10-point lead over the Vancouver Whitecaps and a 14-point lead in the Eastern Conference.
Nashville have been dominant at Geodis Park, winning 13 of 14 matches (they drew the other match) and outscoring opponents 41-12.
Today, we're looking at the tape to see how Nashville create overloads all across the pitch and maintain pressure on their opponents.
Tired of cheering for bad Nashville sports teams? We've got you covered.
Nashville SC are the best team in Major League Soccer, and we're offering 50% off new yearly subscriptions. Take it from us; following a Nashville team can actually be fun!
Midfield shape
The 3-2-5 buildup shape has been common in the highest levels of football around the world for several years, and under BJ Callaghan, Nashville have used it extensively.
Ben Wright
As the 2026 season has progressed, though, how they've used it has changed.
Above, you can see Nashville setting up in that shape early in their buildup phase. In recent weeks, midfielder Matt Corcoran has been the primary player to drop into the line of three. He typically drifts to the left side of the backline to pick up the ball, with Maxwell Woledzi in the middle and Jeisson Palacios high and to the right.
