LAFC prepare for the next instalment of Philadelphia Union rivalry
The semi-final of the Concacaf Champions League brings together the two teams who played out an extraordinary MLS Cup final last year.
Last year’s MLS Cup final will go down as one of the most astonishing games in the history of MLS. Ten-man LAFC equalised against the Philadelphia Union in the eighth minute of added time, before going on to lift its maiden MLS Cup title with a win on penalties.
That game set in stone the rivalry between the two sides, both of whom have been competing at the top of MLS in recent seasons.
On Tuesday night they go head-to-head once again in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions League (CCL) semi-final. With the score tied at 1-1 both sides are tantalisingly close to a shot at continental glory.
Ahead of the second leg we spoke to Julio ‘El Chiva Mayor’ Ramos, director of LAFC’s 3252 supporter group. Here’s what he had to say about the rivalry…
What impact has last year’s MLS Cup final had on the rivalry?
“How is the rivalry against Philadelphia after the MLS Cup? It’s in the top three for sure.
“After winning that MLS Cup the way we did – it looked like Philadelphia were the champions for five minutes – and then a miracle happened and we are the champions now.”
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What can we expect from the second leg in Los Angeles?
“It’s definitely a very exciting game against a very tough team. In the last six games we have played against them we have tied all of them, so it’s always a very close game with Philadelphia.
“I wouldn’t expect anything less than a good game whenever we play them.”
Does the 3252 have anything special planned?
“The 3252 is going to do what we always do. We’re always going to be supporting the team, no matter what, with non-stop passion in the stands. We’re unmatched in the stands.
“I think when it comes to Tifos I can’t say too much about it, but all I will say is always make sure to look out for something very special from the 3252.”