LOS ANGELES -- The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as LAFC prepares to host the Seattle Sounders in the Western Conference Semifinals of the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. On Saturday, November 23, at BMO Stadium, these two storied rivals will meet for the 23rd time in a match that promises drama, tension, and high stakes. For LAFC, it’s another step in their pursuit of a third consecutive Conference Final appearance. For the Sounders, it’s a chance to rewrite the narrative against a side that has dominated their recent encounters.
A rivalry that defines competitions
Some rivalries are born from geography, others from history. The rivalry between LAFC and the Seattle Sounders falls into the latter category, forged in the fires of high-stakes battles across competitions. It began in 2018 when Seattle welcomed an expansion LAFC to the league with a hard-fought victory in the Black & Gold’s debut match. Months later, Seattle played the role of spoiler again, handing LAFC another defeat in the first match at their new home stadium.
Since then, the rivalry has blossomed into one of MLS’s marquee matchups. If there’s a trophy on the line or a playoff spot at stake, it seems inevitable these two sides will meet. From the Leagues Cup to the U.S. Open Cup to MLS Cup Playoffs, they’ve clashed repeatedly, often with LAFC getting the better of Seattle in recent years. This season alone, the two sides met four times, with LAFC winning three and drawing once, extending their unbeaten streak against the Sounders to 10 matches.
But history isn’t always comforting. The last time Seattle won at BMO Stadium was in 2019—a match that still sends shivers down LAFC spines. The Sounders, gritty and determined, upset a record-breaking LAFC side in the Conference Final, dashing their Supporters’ Shield-winning dreams. As Saturday approaches, LAFC will look to ensure that history does not repeat itself.
Paths to the semifinals
Both teams come into this match riding the momentum of Round One victories, but their paths were starkly different. LAFC endured a grueling three-game series against the Vancouver Whitecaps, eventually prevailing with a 1-0 win in Game 3 at home. Their tactical discipline and resilience were on full display, with Denis Bouanga’s lethal presence up front and a defense that allowed just one goal across the series.
The Sounders, on the other hand, advanced in dramatic fashion, winning both games of their Best-of-3 series against the Houston Dynamo via penalty shootouts. Their performances showcased the team’s defensive solidity, led by a backline that conceded just 35 goals during the regular season—best in MLS. However, their lack of goalscoring in regulation time remains a concern, with Seattle managing just one goal in their last seven matches against LAFC. “If we need some freshness from the bench we know we have a good roster, a deep roster, and everyone can help,” Timothy Tillman.
Key Players and Tactical Dynamics
For LAFC, the attack is spearheaded by Denis Bouanga, whose 20 goals in the regular season tied him with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez for second in the league. Bouanga has been a thorn in Seattle’s side, netting five goals in their last three encounters. Complementing him is Mateusz Bogusz, a rising star whose versatility has added a new dimension to LAFC’s offense. Bogusz’s 15 goals this season mark a 300% improvement over his previous campaign, reflecting head coach Steve Cherundolo’s ability to nurture talent and extract the best from his squad.
Seattle, under the steady leadership of Brian Schmetzer, relies heavily on Jordan Morris and Albert Rusnák. Morris, with 13 goals this season, brings pace and power, while Rusnák’s 26 goal contributions (10 goals and 16 assists) make him the creative heartbeat of the team. Seattle’s 4-2-3-1 formation emphasizes defensive stability, but against a dynamic LAFC attack, their ability to transition quickly will be critical.
LAFC’s success will hinge on maintaining tactical discipline and leveraging home-field advantage. Unbeaten in their last six home matches and with a raucous BMO Stadium crowd behind them, the Black & Gold will aim to dictate the game’s tempo. Meanwhile, Seattle’s chances rest on overcoming their struggles against LAFC, staying compact defensively, and making the most of set-piece opportunities—a key strength in recent matches.
The coaches’ influence
Both teams are led by understated yet tactically astute head coaches. Steve Cherundolo’s impact on LAFC has been profound, transforming a freewheeling side into a balanced powerhouse capable of adapting to any opponent. His ability to make in-game adjustments, like the formation shift that secured victory against Vancouver, underscores his strategic acumen.
For Schmetzer, this match represents another chapter in his storied tenure with Seattle. Having guided the Sounders to two MLS Cups and four finals, Schmetzer knows what it takes to win on the biggest stages. His calm demeanor and emphasis on preparation will be vital as the Sounders aim to upset the odds once again.
What’s at stake
For LAFC, this match is about cementing their dominance in the Western Conference and moving closer to a third straight MLS Cup Final appearance. For Seattle, it’s a chance to end their winless drought against LAFC and reclaim their status as one of the league’s elite teams. Beyond the immediate stakes, this clash is a testament to the enduring intensity of the LAFC-Seattle rivalry, a fixture that never fails to deliver drama and quality.
Prediction
In a rivalry built on fine margins and high stakes, this match promises to be no different. LAFC’s recent dominance and home-field advantage make them the favorites, but Seattle’s defensive resilience and big-game pedigree cannot be underestimated. Expect a tightly contested affair, with LAFC edging out a narrow victory to keep their MLS Cup dreams alive.
As the countdown to Saturday begins, fans of both teams know one thing for certain: when LAFC and Seattle meet, sparks will fly, and history will be made.