Son Heung-min's LAFC Clash with Fierce Rivals in Blockbuster Western Conference Semifinal Showdown

For the third consecutive year, LAFC and Vancouver Whitecaps FC will clash in the MLS Cup playoffs, though this season brings something special with legendary players Thomas Müller and Son Heung-min leading the charge.

Both clubs progressed beyond the opening round of the best-of-three format this past weekend, with the Whitecaps earning their spot on Saturday evening through a penalty shootout victory over FC Dallas following a 1–1 deadlock after regulation time.

LAFC responded with an impressive display on Sunday, defeating Austin FC 4–1 in the second game to advance past the initial playoff round for the fourth consecutive campaign.

Son, who joined LAFC for a club-record $26.2 million transfer fee in August, contributed one goal and one assist during the opening round matchup, while Müller found the net in the first game for the Whitecaps before converting his spot kick in the decisive penalty shootout.

These two Western Conference clubs will now face off in the conference semifinal on Nov. 22, a single elimination match for a place in the Western Conference championship game, which serves as the penultimate step before the MLS Cup final on Dec. 6.

When Is Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. LAFC?

Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. LAFC Playoff History

The Western Conference semifinal marks the first occasion Vancouver and LA will compete in a playoff round beyond the opening stage of the MLS Cup playoffs, having previously faced each other in the best-of-three format since it was implemented in 2023.

LAFC eliminated the Whitecaps in 2023 with a commanding 5–2 victory in the opener and a disputed 1–0 away triumph in the second match, where referee Tim Ford controversially blocked a late attempt from then-Whitecaps midfielder Alessandro Schöpf before ending the contest.

Subsequently, LAFC overcame Seattle Sounders FC and Houston Dynamo FC before succumbing to Columbus Crew in the MLS Cup final, missing out on consecutive championships after their 2022 triumph.

The Whitecaps mounted a stronger challenge in 2024. Following LAFC's 2–1 home victory in the first encounter, the Whitecaps delivered a commanding 3–0 performance at BC Place in the second match. LAFC ultimately prevailed in the third game before losing to Seattle in the Western Conference semifinal.

What will 2025 bring?

Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. LAFC Past Five Results (All Competitions)

Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs .LAFC All-Time Head-to-Head Record