It happened! The Moment all LAFC fans have dreamed about is here. Your 2022 LAFC squad will challenge for the 2022 MLS Cup. After defeating Austin FC for the Western Conference Final, they will welcome the Philadelphia Union for an epic showdown. Let’s take a look at how LAFC got here.
Pure Dominance Against Austin FC
First Half Overview
LAFC welcomed Austin FC for their third showdown of the season. As these two teams were facing off to claim ownership of the Western Conference. Just three years LAFC found themselves in this exact same spot but against the Seattle Sounders. They would go on to lose 3-1 and would wait three years before reaching this exact situation once again. This time LAFC was ready and completely dominated Austin. As they would go on to win 3-0 and easily could have scored 4 or 5 more goals. Right from the get-go LAFC was the more confident team. Putting pressure on Austin’s wingbacks with sharp diagonal runs. Immediately Diego Palacios and Ryan Hollingshead found spaces on the wing and made life difficult for Austin defenders. LAFC would breakthrough in the 29th minute with a goal from Chicho Arango with a well-executed corner kick. Sending LAFC to halftime with the lead.
Second Half Overview
LAFC would once again benefit from a set piece. As they doubled their lead with an own goal from Maximilliano Urruti. Vela’s corner kick would go off Urruti’s face and unfortunately for him that was his first touch in this match. With the lead now doubled LAFC had the Conference in their grasps. Controversy would ensue in the 66th minute. As Diego Fagundez would go down in the area with no penalty being called. The play would head off to VAR where a slight stomp could be seen. It would not be enough to overturn the call and play resumed. LAFC added a late goal in the 81st minute. Practically sealing the deal and winning the West for LAFC.
Taking on The Philadelphia Union
With LAFC’s early win the Philadelphia Union would host New York City FC for the Eastern Conference Final. This would be a rematch of last year’s final where NYCFC won by the minimum. The Union were out looking for revenge and that they did. As the Union would win the match 3-1 undeniably cementing themselves in the 2022 MLS season. They will now travel to LA where it will be the battle of two number 1 teams. Both dominated their respective conferences and will challenge for MLS Cup. This is the first time since 2003 where the top teams of each conference will play for MLS Cup. ¡Vamos LAFC! ¡Por La Copa, For the Cup y Por La Gloria, For the Glory!
