The stage is set for an epic clash as Major League Soccer’s two original clubs, the LA Galaxy and New York Red Bulls, meet in the 2024 MLS Cup final. After grueling conference final victories, these storied franchises are ready to battle for the ultimate prize.
A Tale of Two Contenders
For the Galaxy, a return to the MLS Cup final is a chance to add to their record five championships. Led by head coach Greg Vanney, the star-studded LA squad features MLS Newcomer of the Year Gabriel Pec and the electric Riqui Puig pulling the strings in midfield.
On the other side, the Red Bulls are aiming to capture their first MLS Cup title after nearly three decades in the league. Under the guidance of Sandro Schwarz, New York has embraced an underdog mentality, knocking off higher-seeded opponents throughout their playoff run.
Galaxy Survive Seattle Challenge
The Galaxy punched their ticket to the final with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Seattle Sounders. In a tense affair, it was striker Dejan Joveljić who provided the decisive moment, calmly slotting home the game-winner in the 85th minute off a sublime assist from Puig.
We knew they’re a stingy defense. They’re not the best defense in the league for nothing.
– Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney on the challenge posed by Seattle
The Galaxy’s attack, which had been rampant in previous rounds, was stifled by Seattle’s resolute backline. But LA’s own defense stood tall, with goalkeeper John McCarthy making several key saves to preserve the clean sheet and the victory.
Red Bulls Stun Orlando on the Road
In the Eastern Conference final, the seventh-seeded Red Bulls continued their Cinderella run with a gritty 1-0 win away to Orlando City. The match’s lone goal came from an unlikely source as center-back Andrés Reyes headed home a free-kick early in the second half.
It was a highly impressive team effort from the Red Bulls against Orlando, and nearly every member of the starting lineup was brilliant.
– An MLS expert reacting to New York’s disciplined performance
New York’s team defending was superb throughout, limiting Orlando’s attacking opportunities and securing a hard-earned clean sheet. The Red Bulls became the first team since 2008 to win three straight road games in a single postseason.
Key Storylines for the Final
- The Galaxy are seeking their sixth MLS Cup title, which would extend their record.
- The Red Bulls are playing in their first MLS Cup final since 2008 and aiming to finally capture their first championship.
- LA will be without playmaker Riqui Puig, who suffered a torn ACL in the conference final. Who will step up in his absence?
- Both teams boast strong defenses that have come up big in the playoffs. Will the final be a low-scoring affair?
- The matchup pits two of the league’s top coaches against each other in LA’s Greg Vanney and New York’s Sandro Schwarz.
As two MLS originals prepare to face off for the biggest prize in American soccer, the stage is set for a memorable 2024 MLS Cup final. Will the Galaxy add to their trophy case, or will the Red Bulls finally get their hands on the elusive cup? We’ll find out on December 7th.
