MLS Playoffs: LA Galaxy Shine as the Last Giant Standing
The MLS Cup playoffs are heating up, and after a weekend of jaw-dropping action, we’re down to the final four teams. The postseason has been nothing short of chaotic, with top seeds falling left and right. Inter Miami, the No. 1 seed and Supporters’ Shield winners, were shockingly ousted in Round One. Then, Western Conference champions LAFC were sent packing in the semifinals by the Seattle Sounders. But amidst the chaos, one team has risen above the rest: the LA Galaxy.
On the other side of the bracket, Atlanta United’s Cinderella story came to an abrupt end at the hands of Orlando City, while the New York Red Bulls triumphed over NYCFC in the first-ever postseason edition of the Hudson River Derby. With the conference finals set, the stage is set for an MLS Cup filled with firsts and plenty of drama.
The Talk of the Conference Semis
Galaxy Do What Every Other Favorite Couldn’t
The LA Galaxy delivered a statement performance in the Western Conference semifinals, demolishing Minnesota United 6-2. This victory made them the only team seeded in the top three of either conference to advance to the conference finals. LAFC, Real Salt Lake, FC Cincinnati, the Columbus Crew, and Inter Miami all fell short of expectations in the 2024 postseason.
Many had pegged Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, as the favorites to win it all. But while Miami faltered, the Galaxy thrived. They’ve scored an incredible 15 goals across three playoff games, showcasing an offensive firepower that has been unmatched in this year’s tournament.
The Galaxy’s success is no fluke. They’ve carried the momentum from a strong regular season into the playoffs, proving that consistency is key. Their historic pedigree as one of MLS’s most successful clubs is shining through once again. — Megan Swanick
Looking Ahead to an MLS Cup of Firsts
With LAFC and NYCFC eliminated, the final four teams are all chasing their first league championship of the 2020s. For two of these clubs, Orlando City and the New York Red Bulls, a potential MLS Cup victory would mark their first-ever league title.
- Orlando City: Orlando’s resurgence has been remarkable. Their 1-0 win over Atlanta in the semifinals was a testament to their form since July. “From July, we’ve been one of the best teams in MLS,” said Dagur Thórhallsson after the match.
- New York Red Bulls: The Red Bulls will face Orlando in the Eastern Conference final after dispatching NYCFC 2-0 in the Hudson River Derby. Their defensive grit and clinical finishing have been key to their success.
Meanwhile, the Galaxy and the Sounders bring more MLS Cup experience to the table. The Galaxy lead the league with five titles, while Seattle has two. However, both teams are hungry for redemption after watching other heavyweights claim the championship in recent years. The Galaxy will host the Western Conference final and enter as favorites, but the Sounders’ dramatic 2-1 extra-time win over LAFC proves they’re not to be underestimated. — Cesar Hernandez
Atlanta’s Cinderella Run Comes to an End
Atlanta United captured the hearts of neutrals with their stunning upset of Inter Miami in Round One. But their fairytale run ended in the semifinals with a 1-0 loss to Orlando City. Despite the heroics of 40-year-old goalkeeper Brad Guzan in the first round, Atlanta couldn’t overcome their vulnerabilities. A set-piece goal from Ramiro Enrique sealed their fate, exposing a weakness that had plagued them all season.
While Atlanta’s playoff journey is over, Orlando’s historic run continues. They’ve reached their first-ever Eastern Conference final and could make even more history next weekend. — Lizzy Becherano
Conference Semifinals MVPs
Stefan Frei
Original source article rewritten by our AI can be read here.
Originally Written by: New York Red Bulls
Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel was instrumental in their 2-0 win over NYCFC. Coronel made seven saves, shutting out a team with an xG of 2.8. His performance marked his seventh clean sheet in the Hudson River Derby. — Hernandez
Goal of the Conference Semis
Jordan Morris
Originally Written by: New York Red Bulls
Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel was instrumental in their 2-0 win over NYCFC. Coronel made seven saves, shutting out a team with an xG of 2.8. His performance marked his seventh clean sheet in the Hudson River Derby. — Hernandez
