LAFC's Championship Blueprint: How They'll Conquer Bogey Teams, Unleash Muller, and Challenge Messi for the 2025 MLS Cup
LAFC are poised to begin their 2025 MLS Cup playoff journey and will be aiming to secure a second championship in the franchise's history.
Spearheaded by Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga, LAFC delivered an impressive conclusion to the regular season, securing six consecutive victories before stumbling in their final two matches of the campaign.
This dynamic pair has been outstanding, tallying 20 goals between them and transforming a struggling Western Conference squad into genuine championship contenders as they advance to their fourth consecutive postseason appearance. Son has been particularly prolific, notching nine goals and two assists across just 10 appearances since his August 9 debut against Chicago Fire FC.
For the Black and Gold to hoist the Philip F. Anschutz trophy following the MLS Cup final on December 6, they must navigate at least five matches and overcome four opponents along the way. Their journey commences against Austin FC, a team LAFC hasn't defeated since 2023 and suffered two losses to during the regular season.
An enticing potential clash with Thomas Müller's Vancouver Whitecaps looms in the Conference Semifinals, followed by a possible MLS Cup encounter against Lionel Messi's Inter Miami.
Should they claim the ultimate prize, veteran midfielder Mark Delgado would join an exclusive group as the 30th player in MLS history to capture three MLS Cup titles, and only the sixth to achieve this feat with three different franchises.
These playoffs will also mark the final matches for head coach Steve Cherundolo, who is departing the organization at season's end.
Here's LAFC's pathway through this year's MLS Cup playoffs, and how Son could add a second trophy to his 2025 collection, having already claimed the Europa League during his concluding weeks at Tottenham Hotspur.
LAFC MLS Cup Playoff Roadmap
