LAFC look to go back-to-back in MLS Cup Final

The 2023 MLS regular season kicked off in March and now, as December rolls in, the stage is set for the championship clash between two clubs vying for the crown. LAFC, aiming for back-to-back titles, faces off against the Columbus Crew in a match that holds significance beyond just the pursuit of the trophy. Despite coming from different conferences, both teams share commonalities heading into the MLS Cup Final.

Both LAFC and Columbus have recently secured at least one MLS Cup in the last four years, entered the league playoffs as No. 3 seeds, and boast players who have previously represented the opposing franchise at an earlier stage in their careers.

For the hometown Crew, this Saturday offers another opportunity to claim victory in front of their devoted supporters. Under the guidance of Wilfried Nancy, the Crew have bounced back from a disappointing 2022 campaign, showcasing entertaining soccer and earning their spot in the league final.

LAFC aims to become the first MLS franchise since rivals LA Galaxy to earn back-to-back league titles with a triumph on Saturday. However, unlike their 2022 triumph on home turf, Steve Cherundolo’s squad faces the challenge of playing away against the odds, with the majority of support anticipated for the Crew at Lower.com Field.

This upcoming MLS Cup Final marks the fourth-ever meeting between the Crew and LAFC. Notably, LAFC holds a perfect record of 3-0-0 against the Crew in MLS play, having outscored their opponents 7-0. Their last encounter on May 21, 2022, saw Carlos Vela and Jose Cifuentes on the scoresheet for LAFC.

Key players to watch include Chucho Hernandez for the Crew. With Lucas Zelarayan’s midseason departure, Hernandez’s impact has grown significantly. His 16 league goals in 2023 ranked fourth in MLS this season, making him a pivotal signing for the Crew. The 24-year-old Colombian has been one heck of a signing by the Crew, totaling 29 goals and 16 assists in 48 combined appearances since 2022. 

Darlington Nagbe’s experience and leadership in the Crew’s midfield are vital. With over 400 MLS appearances to his name, including MLS Cup triumphs in 2015 and 2020, Nagbe’s presence could influence the midfield battle against LAFC.

Patrick Schulte’s emergence as the Crew’s primary goalkeeper adds depth to their lineup. Despite not starting as the No. 1 goalkeeper at the beginning of the 2023 season, Schulte has excelled, registering two clean sheets in five postseason appearances and making crucial saves.

For LAFC, Denis Bouanga’s exceptional season as the Golden Boot winner stands out. His 24 goals across the regular season and playoffs make him a potent force heading into the final match, having lifted the MLS Cup in 2022 and displaying top form recently.

Carlos Vela remains a significant figure for LAFC, contributing nine goals and 13 assists in league play. As his time with LAFC potentially nears its end, securing a second MLS Cup title would be a fitting finale for the 34-year-old.

Maxime Crepeau’s outstanding performances in goal during the playoffs—registering three clean sheets in four starts—underscore his importance to LAFC’s defensive setup.

The showdown between Darlington Nagbe and Kellyn Acosta, both MLS Cup winners and seasoned midfielders, is anticipated to be pivotal. Their clash in the heart of the midfield will likely dictate the tempo, showcasing their experience and leadership for their respective teams.

Christian Ramirez, a veteran forward, has proven his worth for the Crew, scoring ten goals and providing four assists since joining from Aberdeen. His physical prowess could be crucial, especially in the late stages of the match if Columbus needs a decisive goal.

Mateusz Bogusz, the 22-year-old Polish attacker, adds an attacking dimension off the bench for LAFC. His three goals and five assists this season highlight his ability to impact the game, either starting on the wing or posing a threat against fatigued defenders late in the match.

In conclusion, the prediction favors LAFC to repeat as MLS Champions in this highly anticipated showdown.