Galaxy, LAFC Shine as MLS Cup Contenders
As the dust settles on an electrifying first round of the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs, two teams have emerged as clear favorites to lift the trophy: the LA Galaxy and Los Angeles FC. Both squads dominated their opening series, with the Galaxy outscoring the Colorado Rapids 9-1 across two matches and LAFC ultimately prevailing over the Vancouver Whitecaps in a hard-fought three-game battle.
Leading the charge for the Galaxy was Spanish midfielder Riqui Puig, who netted an astonishing four goals and added an assist in his team’s rout of the Rapids. His performances have many pundits tipping him as an early frontrunner for the MLS Cup MVP award. Alongside Puig, the Galaxy boast an in-form attacking unit featuring MLS Newcomer of the Year Gabriel Pec, who contributed three assists and a goal of his own against Colorado.
Over at LAFC, the reigning U.S. Open Cup champions overcame a few scares against a feisty Whitecaps side but ultimately flexed their squad depth and championship pedigree to advance. With club legend Carlos Vela back to full fitness and available off the bench, LAFC look to have the firepower and experience to mount a deep postseason run.
Messi, Miami Stunned by Underdogs Atlanta
Perhaps the biggest story of the first round was the shock elimination of Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami at the hands of 9th-seeded Atlanta United. After cruising to the Supporters’ Shield and breaking the MLS single-season points record with 74, Miami entered the playoffs as heavy title favorites. But Atlanta, who finished 34 points behind Miami in the regular season, had other ideas.
There’s some fairy dust in our locker room. Grinding, believing, resilience.
– Brad Guzan, Atlanta United captain
Buoyed by two goals from Senegalese striker Jamal Thiaré and a vintage performance from 40-year-old goalkeeper Brad Guzan, who made 18 saves across the series including several world-class stops to deny Messi, Atlanta clawed out a 3-2 win in the decisive third match to send shockwaves across the soccer world and bring Miami’s fairytale season to a premature end.
Keepers the Heroes in Penalty Shootout Dramatics
Goalkeepers took center stage in an unprecedented first round that saw five of the eight series decided by penalty shootouts. Among the standout performers between the posts were:
- Matt Freese (NYCFC): Saved 3 penalties to eliminate FC Cincinnati
- Pedro Gallese (Orlando): Made 2 shootout saves to oust Charlotte FC
- Carlos Coronel (NY Red Bulls): Stopped 2 spot kicks as NYRB upset Columbus
- Stefan Frei (Seattle) & Dayne St. Clair (Minnesota): Traded crucial saves in their respective shootout victories
While attacking stars often grab the headlines, these clutch goalkeeping displays served as a timely reminder of the vital role and immense pressure los arqueros shoulder in the crunch moments that define seasons.
Looking Ahead: Mouthwatering Semifinal Matchups
Following the first-round upsets, the conference semifinal schedule has thrown up some intriguing matchups:
- NYCFC vs. NY Red Bulls: The first-ever playoff Hudson River Derby
- LA Galaxy vs. Minnesota United: Riqui Puig and the Galaxy attack vs. shootout hero Dayne St. Clair
- Orlando City vs. Atlanta United: An I-85 rivalry clash featuring two in-form underdogs
With the first round in the books and the championship field whittled down to eight contenders, the 2024 MLS Cup playoffs have already delivered incredible drama, phenomenal performances, and unforgettable moments. As the Galaxy and LAFC angle to bring the trophy back to Los Angeles and the remaining Davids look to continue their giant-slaying ways, one thing is certain: the best is yet to come in this postseason of surprises.
