Thomas Müller vs Son Heung-min: Star Power Clash Ignites MLS Cup Semifinals Showdown
One of the most eagerly awaited Western Conference clashes in MLS history unfolds this weekend as Son Heung-min's LAFC face off against Thomas Müller's Vancouver Whitecaps.
The playoff semifinal sees the Black and Gold travel north to BC Place, a 2026 World Cup host venue, where the Whitecaps await them before a capacity crowd. This marks the third consecutive year these clubs have met in postseason play, though it's their first encounter at this semifinal level.
In previous matchups, LAFC emerged victorious with Denis Bouanga as the key performer—the Gabonese forward boasts 13 career strikes against Vancouver, with four coming in playoff action.
While Son and Müller capture the headlines entering this contest, how do these superstars measure up head-to-head?
Müller's Historic Edge Against Son
Saturday's encounter represents the 13th time Müller and Son have faced each other, their first meeting since the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia. On that occasion, Son found the net as South Korea stunned the defending champions 2–0 in one of the tournament's biggest surprises.
That match remains Son's sole triumph against Müller across both international and club competitions.
Müller holds the upper hand with eight victories in their 12 encounters. He's also been more influential in those contests. Across all 12 matches between the duo, Müller has registered six goals and assists versus Son's two strikes.
While historical results reflect Bayern's European excellence and Germany's international prowess, it's difficult to dispute the Raumdeuter's commanding record.
Their initial encounter occurred in Bundesliga play on Aug. 20, 2011. A 21-year-old Müller and Bayern crushed 19-year-old Son's Hamburger SV 5–0. Their latest meeting came on Aug. 10, 2024, when Müller scored in Bayern's 3–2 friendly victory over Tottenham.
Who Has Excelled More in MLS?
Both Son and Müller have enjoyed exceptional beginnings to their MLS journeys since arriving in August.
LAFC invested a league-record $26.2 million to secure Son's services, and he has exceeded all projections. Son has netted 10 goals with four assists across 11 matches, forming a dynamic partnership with Denis Bouanga.
Nevertheless, their regular-season campaign saw them encounter just one team that advanced to the MLS Cup playoffs' opening round, and they showed less efficiency in their series versus Austin FC.
Thus far, Son has established himself among MLS's elite attackers without depending on penalty kicks to inflate his scoring numbers. The ex-Tottenham sensation already ranks in the top 6% of MLS players for successful dribbles, progressive carries and passes, showcasing his exceptional transitional abilities.
Müller has achieved comparable success, albeit with greater penalty reliance. He's contributed nine goals and four assists across all competitions, elevating Vancouver's possession awareness.
Since his arrival, only Lionel Messi, Bouanga, Son and Anders Dreyer have delivered greater offensive impact. His displays also came against tougher opposition, with six regular-season matches featuring teams that reached the opening round.
The Whitecaps' strength this campaign has been their 4-4-2 and 3-2-5 tactical formations under MLS Coach of the Year candidate Jesper Sørensen.
Regarding who's made the superior start?
Son holds a marginal advantage, though the quality of opposition and style of influence, based on game tempo, are crucial elements favoring Müller.
Whitecaps vs. LAFC—Which Squad is Favored?
LAFC possess the historical edge and championship pedigree that's propelled them to three MLS Cup finals in four recent seasons. However, the Whitecaps have proven among the most difficult teams to defeat this season, whether home or away.
Should LAFC capitalize on counter-attacks, the match is theirs to claim. If the Whitecaps successfully reintegrate a fit Tristan Blackmon at center-back and top scorer Brian White from injury up front, they could gain the advantage at home.
The California outfit have dominated the Whitecaps over the past two campaigns, but the Canadian side might have more at stake in this fixture.
Until demonstrated otherwise, LAFC remain the narrow favorites.