MLS NEXT Pro Honors: RBNY II, Riley Lynch, and Nicolas Lasheras Shine in Matchweek 8

Apr 28, 2026 8 Views MLS NEXT PRO

As the second month of the 2026 MLS NEXT Pro season draws to a close, the playoff picture is beginning to sharpen. Matchweek 8 provided a platform for both established contenders and rising academy stars to make their mark.

From a dominant statement win in the Eastern Conference to a dramatic "super-sub" performance in the Midwest, here are the top performers honored by the league this week.

Team of the Matchweek: Red Bull New York II

The defending champions issued a loud reminder to the rest of the league with a 4-1 victory over fellow heavyweight Columbus Crew 2. The "Baby Bulls" dominated nearly every statistical category, outshooting Columbus 26-10 to clinch the season series and extend their winning streak to three games.

Dennis Gjengaar’s Masterclass: The Norwegian U-22 signing was the engine of the offense, recording a rare hat-trick of assists. He set up Nate Worth (19’), Dennis Nelich, and Julian Bazan.
Clinical Finishing: Roald Mitchell also found the scoresheet, ensuring RBNY II has scored multiple goals in every one of their five wins this season.
Between the Pipes: Goalkeeper Aidan Stokes stood tall with six saves, missing out on a clean sheet only due to a late defensive lapse.

RBNY II now moves into second place in the Eastern Conference, looking every bit the part of a back-to-back title contender.

Player of the Matchweek: Riley Lynch (St. Louis CITY2)

St. Louis CITY2 extended their season-opening unbeaten streak to eight matches following a gritty 2-1 win over Western Conference rival Ventura County FC. The catalyst was newcomer Riley Lynch, who had a direct hand in both goals.

Lynch provided the assist for Jermone Barclay in the 23rd minute before clinicaly finishing a set-piece in the 56th minute to secure the three points. Lynch has been a revelation for the Western leaders, tallying 3 goals and 5 assists so far in 2026. Thanks to his contributions, CITY2 currently boasts a conference-best 20 goals scored.

Rising Star of the Matchweek: Nicolas Lasheras (Orlando City B)

The most dramatic moment of the week belonged to 17-year-old Orlando City Academy product Nicolas Lasheras. Entering the match against Chicago Fire FC II as an 80th-minute substitute with his team trailing 2-1, Lasheras rose to the occasion.

In the dying seconds of stoppage time, Lasheras headed home a desperate equalizer to force a 2-2 draw. Orlando City B went on to win the ensuing shootout, earning the extra point. The goal marked the first professional goal for Lasheras, who has appeared in six matches (three starts) for OCB this season.

By the Numbers: Matchweek 8 Standouts

Category	Player/Team	Performance
Team Goals	Red Bull New York II	4
Assists	Dennis Gjengaar (RBNY II)	3
Saves	Aidan Stokes (RBNY II)	6
Unbeaten Streak	St. Louis CITY2	8 Games
Youngest Scorer	Nicolas Lasheras (OCB)	17 Years Old