Why this El Trafico is a bigger deal for LAFC and their fans
Most LAFC fans knew there was a chance to see both LA teams face each other again but not everyone expected it could turn into reality. After the Galaxy were victorious in Minnesota in the first round of the MLS playoffs, it was settled that we would see ‘El Trafico’ one more time this year.
As both teams get ready for the Western Conference Semifinals, it’s not LA Galaxy facing the most pressure, its the LA Football Club.
No wins…yet
Los Angeles FC has been unsuccessful in defeating its LA neighbor on five occasions. Although they’ve played a great game, LAFC has either not been able to secure the lead on the scoreboard or they were just plainly outmatched.
As a fan it’s frustrating seeing your team not being able to defeat one of your most hated rivals, especially when no victory has been recorded yet. This playoff match could be the lucky one for the Black and Gold supporters but we will have to wait and see.
Redemption at Home
Although Galaxy has taken some wins in Carson during El Trafico, LAFC has managed to stay undefeated at home with two draws. The most recent matchup between them was in August in a thrilling 3-3 draw at the Banc of California Stadium.
The first El Trafico at the Banc was in July 2018 where they tied 2-2 but felt like a loss for LAFC fans. Vela and his team were up 2-0 but blew the lead in the last ten minutes of the second half, letting go of their first derby victory.
Rewriting History Again
Bob Bradley has handled his team extremely well this year with a successful season after surpassing many MLS records, but he’s not done yet.
Last season, LAFC made it to the knockout round of the MLS playoffs, which is technically the first round before it was changed just this year. LAFC fell at home 3-2 against Real Salt Lake during their first MLS season.
This season, they’re one step closer to reaching the final of the West Conference. If LAFC are successful in defeating LA Galaxy, they’ll be disputing their first final against the winner between Real Salt Lake and Seattle Sounders.
A Derby To Remember
El Trafico has not disappointed since its first game and its level of intensity will continue to grow in MLS. The ‘Clasico’ between LAFC and LA Galaxy will be the first matchup in playoff history and we cannot wait to see what the final result will be.
We’ve seen both sides play hard against each other during the regular season but this Thursday will be a new face of El Trafico. This game will determine who really runs LA and who will be the favorite to win the MLS Cup.
