Seattle Sounders FC came into BMO Stadium Saturday November 23rd, 2024 to defeat LAFC with a score of 2-1 to advance to the MLS Western Conference Final. The 4th seeded Sounders eliminated the West’s number one seed. They came back from a one goal deficit following a right footed shot to the back of their net by LAFC’s Ryan Hollingshead at the 50th minute mark.

Sounders FC were then gifted the tie after an own goal by LAFC’s Maxime Chanot at the 59th minute. That own goal was the product of a pass attempt by Sounder FC’s Obed Vargas. Brian Schmetzer, Sounders FC manager, assessed the Mexican-American as the best player of the game during his post-game press conference. The energetic midfielder played well throughout the game, including well placed passes, creating a shot opportunity for himself at the 38th minute, and attentive defensive play.

Local brothers Cristian and Alex Roldan from Pico Rivera, California have formed a core for Sounders FC the last few years. The duo with Honduran and Salvadorean heritage did not stand out on the field this night but the chemistry the team displayed in the locker room after the game reflected their contribution to team’s success.

Ultimately, Sounders FC came into Los Angeles undeterred by LAFC’s recent success against them. They defended when they needed to, and they took advantage of opportunities they created for themselves. At times LAFC appeared relentless, but Jordan Morris’ extra-time goal and Stefan Frei’s 9 saves combined with their team’s coordination to overcome LAFC’s imprecise gameplay.

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