Major League Soccer’s Decision Day 2024 sets up well for the Los Angeles Football Club
Winning Streak and Playoff Positioning
Winners in their last four against the league, LAFC remains alive for the top seed in the Western Conference despite their disappearing act in the second half against the first-place Galaxy in mid-September. Since then, LAFC has taken 13 of 18 points, narrowing the gap with the Galaxy to just three points.
The Path to the Top
To clear the final hurdle and overtake the Galaxy at the wire, LAFC must dispose of the outmatched San Jose Earthquakes (6-24-3, 21 points) on Saturday at BMO Stadium. With the Galaxy playing at the same time in Houston, LAFC’s playoff positioning would depend on what the five-time MLS champions do.
Leadership and Teamwork
"I think the main thing we have to focus on is ourselves," said midfielder Timothy Tillman. "If we don’t do our job, then it doesn’t matter what the Galaxy does." Defender Steve Cherundolo echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of individual performances.
Mexican Star Carlos Vela Returns
Coming off back-to-back weeks of quality training, another reinforcement is expected to arrive when Mexican star Carlos Vela serves as an option off the bench for the first time since re-signing with LAFC last month.
Match Details
SAN JOSE EARTHQUAKES AT LAFC
- When: 6:15 p.m. Saturday
- Where: BMO Stadium
- TV/radio: Apple TV (MLS Season Pass)/710 AM, 980 AM
FAQs
Q: What is LAFC’s current standing in the Western Conference?
A: LAFC is currently guaranteed no worse than the second spot starting with the playoff-opening best-of-three series.
Q: How many points does LAFC need to overtake the Galaxy to take the top spot?
A: LAFC needs a three-goal swing in its favor to avoid the next category, goals, which would nab the conference for the Galaxy.
Q: What is the Earthquakes’ current standing in the league?
A: The Earthquakes are currently in last place with 21 points, the seventh lowest in MLS history.
