In the opening of the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, LAFC will host Austin FC at BMO Stadium. The match is scheduled for Wednesday, October 29, at 7:30 p.m. PT. This is the first game of a best-of-three series in Round One. LAFC, seeded third in the Western Conference, will battle sixth-seeded Austin FC to gain a crucial 1-0 lead. Game 2 will be held on Sunday, November 2, in Austin, Texas.
Playoff Structure and Team Background
The winner of the series will advance to the Western Conference Semifinal scheduled for November 22 or 23. During this Round One, if matches are tied after 90 minutes, they will go straight to penalty kicks.
LAFC recently secured its fourth consecutive top-four finish in the regular season, a remarkable feat no other MLS team has accomplished. The club has made appearances in two of the last three MLS Cup Finals and enters the playoffs with an impressive record of 6 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw in its last eight regular-season matches.
Player Highlights
Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-Min are returning to the pitch at BMO Stadium for the first time since October 5, when Bouanga scored the decisive goal in a 1-0 victory against Atlanta United. Together, the duo has netted 20 goals in ten matches since Son’s transfer from England in August, including a record 18 consecutive goals. Bouanga finished the season as co-runner-up for the MLS Golden Boot.
- Bouanga’s playoff goals: 8 in 12 games
- All-time top scorer in Leagues Cup
- First player in MLS history with three consecutive 20-goal seasons
Austin’s last match was a 2-1 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes, where they struggled to create chances. Despite this setback, the Verde’s defense remains strong, with goalkeeper Brad Stuver excelling throughout the season. Stuver leads the league in saves and has a remarkable record, having played nearly every minute of the club’s history since its debut in 2021.
Team Strategy and Previous Encounters
Both teams are versatile in their formations, employing different defensive setups depending on the match situation. LAFC is known for its effective three-back alignment, while Austin may utilize a 3-4-3 formation. Head coach Nico Estévez stated that Austin is prepared for LAFC’s aggressive home play, particularly after their previous matchup, where Austin secured a 1-0 win on October 12.
In their last playoff meeting, LAFC triumphed 3-0 over Austin in the 2022 MLS Cup championship race. Key players from that contest will be present, adding further intrigue to this series.
Looking Ahead
Austin FC must find ways to penetrate LAFC’s stingy defense while relying on its proven goalkeeper and defensive strategies. With high stakes on the line, both teams will aim for a strong start in the opening playoff match at BMO Stadium. LAFC’s historic home advantage and superior playoff experience may tip the scales in their favor.
