Sounders reach playoffs after win over LAFC

Seattle Sounders FC 2-1 LAFC

SEATTLE, WA–Seattle needed a win to reach the playoffs and they got it on Saturday night over LAFC, 2-1. LAFC finishes sixth in the West, while the Sounders get the #8-seed and will host Real Salt Lake in the knockout match on November 19th at Lumen Field.

The Sounders wasted little time in getting head. Just 53 seconds in, LAFC’s attempt to play the ball out of the back was intercepted by Cristian Roldan and Albert Rusnak put the ball into the net to give the Sounders the lead. LAFC had two good chances to respond immediately, but both were saved by Andrew Thomas.

Sebastian Gomez added a second goal in the 31st minute after his shot deflected off Eddie Segura and into the net to double Seattle’s advantage. LAFC pressed to get back into the match and finally got a goal back in the 82nd minute as Segura would head in from close range after Ryan Porteus headed the ball across goal from Leo Walta’s free kick.

With Minnesota winning and several results going a certain way, a draw would have eliminated the Sounders on goal difference. However, the final whistle came and the Sounders reached the playoffs for the 17th time in 18 MLS seasons.

LAFC will now face St. Louis City SC in the Western Conference quarterfinals.