Carlos Vela discusses three factors that led LAFC past Seattle Sounders and into Western Conference final

LAFC booked their place in the Western Conference final of the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs thanks to a narrow victory over Seattle Sounders at Lumen Field. Denis Bouanga was one of three decisive factors for The Black and Gold, notching his 37th goal of the campaign in all competitions, just one short of teammate Carlos Vela’s single-season club record.

LAFC have to “put individual goals aside” to win MLS Cup

“I think the most important thing is to win the title,” Vela said when asked about Bouanga’s goal haul “If he has to score 10 more goals to give us the trophy, that’s perfect for us. If he has to score two and we win the next two games 1-0, we will be more than happy. In the end we have to put our individual goals aside and we will help in any way we can. He is in good form and we have to capitalise on that,” added the LAFC captain.

Crépau helps end Seattle Sounders’ long unbeaten run

A superb performance from goalkeeper Maxime Crépeau, who made seven saves on his way to keeping a clean sheet in Seattle, was equally crucial. The Sounders were unable to find a way past the Canadian and, as a result, saw their 19-game playoff unbeaten streak at home come to an end.

“We know how difficult it is to beat Seattle and we had to make a huge effort. We had to kept them at bay, defend better than ever before and Max had some incredible saves. I think we need everyone to play their part. There are two games left to achieve our goal and we need everyone to be playing as well as possible”, stated.

LAFC one of MLS’ best defences

LAFC’s defensive strength was the final ingredient in the recipe for success. During the regular season, Steve Cherundolo’s team conceded 39 goals in 34 matches, the third best record in the Western Conference. They have built on that during the MLS Cup Playoffs, keeping clean sheets in two of their three games. Another two and they could well become the first team since neighbours LA Galaxy to win back-to-back titles. Houston Dynamo are their opponents in the final on 2 December.

“I think the most important thing is the confidence this victory gives us. Being able to win against a great team and in a very difficult stadium. For a long time in the second half, we had to defend and we were keeping them at bay. The team showed they are very solid at the back and we have different ways of winning. We know there are two games left to achieve our goal and we are working hard to be the best team in the league,” concluded the former Mexico international.