The clash between the 2022 MLS Cup champions and the 2023 U.S. Open Cup winners turned into an intense contest. While the Eastern Conference finale was marked by a goal-filled exchange, the Western Conference showdown was a hard-fought battle where LAFC emerged victorious.
Ryan Hollingshead, who previously netted two goals against the Vancouver Whitecaps in the initial round despite scoring just four in the regular season, found the net again, securing the only goal LAFC needed. His 44th-minute finish, following Giorgio Chiellini’s shot being cleared off the line, gave his team the lead they maintained till the end.
A late own goal from Dynamo’s Franco Escober solidified LAFC’s path to their second consecutive MLS Cup.
Hollingshead’s sudden goal-scoring prowess is notable. Despite being a seasoned veteran in the league for nearly a decade, his crucial goal on Saturday propelled LAFC towards another shot at an MLS Cup. This season has also seen him make his debut in the MLS All-Star team, and the 32-year-old’s remarkable 2023 might culminate in another trophy just ahead of the holiday season.
For Escober, the own goal was a bitter moment. Having moved from LAFC to the Dynamo for the 2023 season, he had been a consistent presence in his new team’s lineup. Unfortunately, he ended up scoring an own goal that sealed his team’s fate during Saturday’s match in LA.
After clinching the trophy by defeating the Philadelphia Union on their home turf last season, LAFC now faces an away challenge to secure this season’s MLS Cup. Their next stop is Ohio to face the Columbus Crew, who secured their spot with a comeback victory against FC Cincinnati in the other Saturday semifinal.
Los Angeles FC performance and stats
Los Angeles FC is currently 3rd in the Major League Soccer with 52 points.
In the last 38 games, it has won 18 times, drawn 10 times, and lost 10 times. In its last match, Los Angeles FC won 2-0 against Houston Dynamo.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 54 goals and conceding 39.
Los Angeles FC will play the next match in Major League Soccer against Vancouver Whitecaps on Friday 10th of November in Los Angeles. The prediction is Los Angeles FC winning the match.