It’s been a very busy, but very successful week for LAFC. A week ago, the team took to the pitch against Sporting KC for a chance to do what they hadn’t done before as a club, win the US Open Cup. It was also a chance to snap the unfortunate run of finals losses, and at home, in front of the fans that have stood by them through it all, they were able to come away with the win and their first trophy of 2024. They then were able to get a win this past weekend, on the road against FC Cincy. A win, that clinched them their spot in the playoffs. Now, the team look to stack on some more wins, even fight for that top spot in the West, building some form as they close out the regular season.
Matchday: #LAFCvSTL
⏰ 7:30 PM PT
🏟️ @BMOStadium
🖥️ @AppleTV with #MLSSeasonPass
🎧 @ESPNLosAngeles pic.twitter.com/PCPTKIzZzP— LAFC (@LAFC) October 2, 2024
Pride on the line
For St. Louis there really isn’t much to play for. They currently sit in 12th in the West, 11 points out of the final playoff spot, but only have three matches (9 points) left in their season. This will be their fourth meeting with LAFC, a matchup they have not yet seen victory in, so there is that to play for. Even more so, this is a match that has not seen them score a single goal, with their lone result a scoreless draw last year. They could find motivation in playing spoiler down the stretch, making it hard on teams looking to better their playoff positioning, but outside of pride, there isn’t much for St. Louis to play for, which almost makes them more dangerous than usual.
Trending in the right direction
After a rough patch of results that had them looking like they had forgotten just how good they are, LAFC were able to get back into the win column and not a match too soon. A 3-1 win at home saw them lift the US Open Cup over Sporting KC, followed up with a 2-1 win on the road in Cincinnati to see them secure their spot in the MLS Playoffs. Now, the team has one more goal to aim for, regaining the top spot in the Western Conference. Rivals, LA Galaxy are currently enjoying life at the top of the conference, but hold just a six point lead with three matches to play on their end, and four matches (including tonight) remaining for LAFC. If they hope to take that spot, they will need to win out as well as get some help from the Galaxy dropping points. They are also in a tie for second on points with RSL, and just seven clear of Portland in ninth. So, its even more reason for them to make sure they finish the season as strong as they can.
How To Watch
Kickoff for this match is set for 7:30pm PT from BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, Ca. The match will be broadcast live and can be streamed on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. Those looking for radio can find the broadcast on ESPN LA on 710AM.
Thoughts on the match tonight? Leave a comment below!