LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris makes a horizontal stretch save during a recent game at BMO Stadium while teammates Ryan Hollingshead, left, and Denis Bouanga watch the play. LAFC advanced to the Conference Semifinal on November 23, at 7:30 p.m. at BMO Stadium.
Los Angeles Football Club advanced to the Western Conference Semifinals for the third consecutive season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in Game 3 of their Round One Best-of-3 series at BMO Stadium last Friday night. After a challenging series opener and a split in the first two games, LAFC returned home determined to secure the win and extend their postseason run.
The decisive moment came in the 62nd minute when Mateusz Bogusz scored his first postseason goal, giving LAFC a crucial lead. Defensively, the team was rock-solid, limiting the Whitecaps to just two shots on goal in the final 30 minutes. Hugo Lloris's presence was key in preserving the shutout, with the goalkeeper stressing the importance of defensive stability in playoff soccer. "Defensively, it's crucial to be solid. You have to rely on that."
Bogusz, the game's hero, also highlighted LAFC's championship mentality, stating, "At this club, we always aim to play in finals and win trophies. This is just the next step," referring to advancing to the next round.
Much of the credit goes to head coach Steve Cherundolo and his staff, who made vital halftime adjustments that shifted the game's momentum. Switching to a 4-3-3 formation gave LAFC better control in the second half, ultimately setting up Bogusz's breakthrough goal. Reflecting on the change, defender Aaron Long praised the coaching staff. "Our coaches were brilliant with the formation change. This roster has leaders who step up in big moments-there was no panic."
Despite early challenges, LAFC's depth and experience make them strong contenders. Alongside emerging talents like Bogusz, the team also benefits from the return of club legend Carlos Vela, who offers an experienced option off the bench.
The MLS Cup Playoff format changes after Round One, with future rounds being single elimination. If matches are tied after regulation, they will go into two 15-minute extra time periods, followed by a penalty shootout if necessary.
Up next, LAFC faces the Seattle Sounders at home on November 23 at 7:30 PM. Seattle has struggled against LAFC in recent years, failing to win any of their last 10 meetings (0-8-2), including three significant playoff eliminations in the 2023 Western Conference Semifinal, the 2024 Leagues Cup quarterfinal, and the 2024 U.S. Open Cup semifinal. With their postseason experience and depth, LAFC continues its championship pursuit.
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