MLS Playoffs Set After LAFC Wins West

The 2024 MLS regular season has concluded, setting the stage for the playoffs. In the Western Conference, LAFC secured the top seed by defeating the San Jose Earthquakes 3-1, aided by Marlon Santos's crucial stoppage-time goal and a dramatic loss by LA Galaxy to Houston Dynamo. LAFC will play a best-of-three series against the winner of the wild-card match between Vancouver Whitecaps and Portland Timbers. In the Eastern Conference, CF Montreal and Atlanta United will face off in the wild-card match, with the winner advancing to face record-setting Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi. Notable performances include Christian Benteke winning the MLS Golden Boot and Denis Bouanga's standout season with LAFC. The playoffs promise intense competition, with matches hosted at the higher-seed venues.