The champions of the East Columbus Crew get ready to host the 2022 MLS Cup winner and Western champs of 2023, LAFC, in Columbus this weekend at Lower.com Field.
This year’s MLS Cup and championship game promises to deliver as the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) goes head-to-head with the Columbus Crew. The clash of titans is set to unfold at Columbus’s iconic Lower.com Field on Saturday, December 9 at 4:00 pm EST. It is the fourth encounter between the 2 teams in history, all previous games were won by LAFC.
Being one of the most impressive soccer-specific stadiums in the nation, the stage is primed for a spectacular battle as both teams vie for the prestigious 2023 MLS Cup. The match is available on Apple TV (Free), FOX, and FOX Deportes.
LAFC’s Journey to the Final
The journey to the final for LAFC has been nothing short of spectacular. After securing the MLS Cup in 2022, the team, led by Steve Cherundolo, is back in the Finals. LAFC has yet to lose a playoff game with Steve as coach.
This team has demonstrated resilience and a significant injection of skill throughout the 2023 season, especially with the arrival of Kike Olivera, who has taken over the starting lineup for the Black and Gold.
Notable victories against Seattle and Houston in the playoffs and strategic use of substitutes have seen LAFC navigate the challenging path to yet another final, setting the stage for a potential repeat championship, a feat last accomplished in 2012.
Columbus Crew’s Home Advantage
On the other side of the pitch, the Columbus Crew has secured home-field advantage after a solid finish to the regular season, having triumphed over FC Cincinnati in their Conference finals clash.
Stellar performances by former LAFC players Christian Ramirez and Diego Rossi have marked the Crew’s ascension to this year’s final, and the home crowd at Lower.com Field will undoubtedly provide an electric atmosphere for the players this weekend. Cucho Hernandez, the leading goalscorer for the Crew, will be a crucial figure as they aim to secure victory on their home turf.
LAFC: The Challenge of Repeating as MLS Cup Winner
As defending champions, LAFC faces the challenge of repeating their success from the previous season. The pressure to maintain the high standards set in 2022 is palpable after disappointing finishes in the Leagues Cup and CCL. Meanwhile, the revitalized Columbus Crew, buoyed by their home support and new arrivals, will be eager to capitalize on any signs of complacency by the visitors, who come in having not allowed any goals in over 270 minutes of play.
MLS Cup Final: Key Players to Watch
At the heart of LAFC’s success is its prolific striker, Golden Boot winner Denis Boaunga, who has been a goal-scoring sensation throughout the season. His consistently finding the back of the net has been crucial in propelling LAFC to the final. Boaunga’s prowess will be a focal point in the upcoming match as he looks to make his mark on the grand stage again after failing to notate a goal for LAFC in the Conference Finals.
Columbus Crew vs LAFC: Strategic Battles and Coaching Styles
With Bouanga and Cucho Hernandez on the pitch, the final game promises to display individual brilliance on the field and strategic battles between two accomplished coaches on the sidelines: Steve Cherundolo and Wilfred Nancy.
Both teams have displayed distinct playing styles throughout the season, with LAFC’s stout defending style and attacking flare contrasting against the Columbus Crew’s resilient and tactical approach, anchored by captain Darlington Nagbe. The match will be a test of wits as the coaches deploy their game plans to outmaneuver each other.
Final Words
As we await the MLS Cup final, the stage is set for an exciting encounter between LAFC and the Columbus Crew. The match brings together the thrill of a potential repeat championship, something last done by the Galaxy in 2012, and the hunger of the challenger seeking to secure glory on home soil. The top scorers, Denis Boaunga for LAFC and Cucho Hernandez for the Columbus Crew will undoubtedly be under the spotlight as they aim to be the heroes of the grand final.
No matter which side you’re pulling for, you can expect 90 minutes (and possibly more) of heart-stopping action, breathtaking goals, and likely more moments that will be etched in MLS history, much like last year’s nail-biter between the Philadelphia Union and LAFC. The game cemented Gareth Bale’s place in the history of this league and gave LAFC its first MLS Cup.
We will find out on Saturday. Whichever team emerges victorious, the MLS Cup final promises to celebrate the beautiful game and serve as a fitting conclusion to a unique season filled with passion, drama, and excellence.
Cover: Courtesy / Columbus Crew
