Seattle Sounders FC have advanced to the Western Conference Final of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs after a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over LAFC in a tense elimination match at BMO Stadium on Saturday.
Striker Jordan Morris emerged as the hero for the Sounders, netting a dramatic winner in the 109th minute during the second extra-time period, thus ending his team’s 10-match winless streak against the Black & Gold, a run that dates back to May 2021. The Sounders’ goalkeeper, Stefan Frei, played a crucial role in the match, making an impressive nine saves that kept LAFC’s Denis Bouanga and his teammates at bay throughout the game.
The match saw a shift in momentum when Seattle’s Maxime Chanot inadvertently scored an own goal, allowing the Sounders to level the score after Ryan Hollingshead had opened the scoring for LAFC in the 50th minute. Hollingshead capitalized on a low cross from Mateusz Bogusz, striking decisively near the penalty spot to give LAFC the lead.
Looking ahead, Seattle will face the winner of the Sunday semifinal match between LA Galaxy and Minnesota United FC. Their Conference Final is scheduled for November 30. If LA Galaxy advances, Seattle will be on the road; if Minnesota, the lower seed, pulls off an upset, Seattle will have the home advantage.
This victory not only marks a significant turnaround for the Sounders but also sets the stage for an exciting continuation of their playoff journey. Fans can look forward to a thrilling match-up in the Conference Final as the team seeks to build momentum from this critical victory.