Sounders FC is hosting LAFC in the Western Conference Semifinals at Lumen Field on Sunday, Nov. 26 (6:30 p.m. PT; Watch on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360AM, Sirius XM FC 157 | TICKETS). Here are five reasons to attend the high-stakes match in the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs.
Rivalry Matchup
While LAFC has held the upper hand during the regular season, the Sounders have dominated this rivalry in the playoffs. Back in 2019, LAFC entered the postseason as the Supporters’ Shield winners and were widely considered one of the best MLS teams of all time. Seattle produced a massive upset, securing a 3-1 win on the road, and went on to win the club’s second MLS Cup title. The Rave Green then hosted the Black & Gold of the 2020 playoffs and once again secured a 3-1 victory en route to an MLS Cup final appearance.
Together As One
How the Sounders show up on the pitch largely determines the outcome of a match, but when it comes to home matches, the team heavily relies on the fan’s support and encouragement to push them to victory. Not only does the motivation from the fans give them that extra burst of energy, but the environment that the supporters create Lumen Field brings a different kind of difficulty to Sounders’ opposition.
Single-Elimination
The Sounders and LAFC face off in a single-elimination conference semifinals match on Sunday. Unlike the Round One best-of-three series, the Second Round of the Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs consists of only one match, with the winner advancing to the Western Conference Final.
Top in the West
The Sounders and LAFC closed out the MLS Regular season near the top of the Western Conference table, placing second and third heading into postseason play. With St. Louis CITY eliminated after Round One, the Rave Green and the LA squad sit as the highest-ranked teams in the West remaining in the playoffs.
In-Match Activations
There will be plenty of activities and events before and during the match for fans to enjoy! Whether it be the Toyota Crossbar Challenge during halftime, soccer skills games and a visit from Sammy the Sounder at Olympic Hall pre-match, or a special live performance from Alternative/Indie artist SYML prior to kickoff, attendees are in for a day full of fun and excitement. Delicious food options from Lumen Field concessions, food trucks and pop-up restaurants will also be available for fans to indulge in.
