LA Galaxy Defeats Seattle Sounders to Secure First MLS Cup Final Berth Since 2014

The LA Galaxy punched their ticket to the 2024 MLS Cup Final after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over the Seattle Sounders in the Western Conference Final on November 30. The win marked the Galaxy’s first return to the league’s championship game since 2014, capping off an impressive playoff run under head coach Greg Vanney.

The match remained scoreless for most of the 90 minutes, with both teams displaying strong defensive organization. Seattle relied on counter-attacks to create chances, while the Galaxy maintained control of possession through midfield play led by Riqui Puig. The deadlock was finally broken in the 85th minute when Dejan Joveljić capitalized on a defensive error, slotting the ball past goalkeeper Stefan Frei to send the Galaxy to the final.

Despite the victory, the Galaxy suffered a significant setback as Puig sustained a torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during the match. Remarkably, the midfielder played through the injury for over 30 minutes and even assisted Joveljić’s game-winning goal before the extent of the injury was revealed post-match. Puig will undergo surgery and is expected to miss six to twelve months of action, ruling him out of the upcoming MLS Cup Final.

The Galaxy’s road to the final has been powered by a high-scoring attack, with the team tallying 16 goals throughout the playoffs, just one shy of the all-time record set by Toronto FC in 2016. However, the team now faces the challenge of adjusting without Puig, who has been a key playmaker in their midfield.

Looking ahead, LA will take on the New York Red Bulls in the MLS Cup Final on December 7. The Red Bulls, seeking their first-ever league championship, present a formidable challenge. Despite the absence of Puig, the Galaxy will rely on Joveljić’s finishing ability and Vanney’s tactical acumen to capture the club’s sixth MLS Cup title.