Ruidiaz and the Sounders ruin Lafc’s historic season
The moment of truth came for LAFC tonight as he Angelino team found themselves for the first time in their history in the Western Conference Finals, matching what Atlanta United did last year as the only teams in MLS history to reach the finals in only their second year in existence.
The black and gold squad hosted the Seattle Sounders, the number two seed in the regular season. Lead by their captain Carlos Vela, they were looking for a spot in the MLS Cup Final in front of a full Banc of California Stadium.
Los Angelinos took the advantage at minute 17 thanks to Eduard Atuesta off a free kick.
The Sounders came with a very offensive game plan, surprising LAFC and 5 minutes later they got the equalizer off a beautiful play by Raul Ruidiaz, assisted by Nicolas Lodeiro.
Within 4 minutes, the Sounders had turned the game around, scoring for a second time thanks to Nicolas Lodeiro who blasted the ball from the top of the 18-yard zone and into the net near the bottom right corner of the goal.
The black and gold were shut down and had no response in the 1st half. They went into the locker rooms with one goal deficit.
For the 2nd half, the teams continued the back-and-forth match. The Sounders with a more precautious game allowed LAFC to take possession of the ball.
Despite all the efforts from LAFC, man of the match Ruidiaz killed all the hopes of a perfect season for the Angelino team at minute 64 with his doblete.
The magic of Carlos Vela ended tonight along with the dream of having the best team in MLS history.
As for the Seattle Sounders of ex-Monarcas Morelia star Ruidiaz, they will advance to the MLS Cup Final where they will await the winner of tomorrow’s Eastern Conference Final matchup between Atlanta United and Toronto FC. The 2019 Audi MLS Cup Final is set to be played on Sunday, November 10th.
