Los Angeles FC secured a 2-1 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps in the first match of their MLS Cup playoff series. Denis Bouanga opened the scoring with a penalty in the 30th minute, marking his eighth goal in nine postseason appearances, followed by Cristian Olivera's goal in the 57th minute. Vancouver's Ryan Gauld scored in the fifth minute of stoppage time, but it was not enough to equalize. LAFC, who have won seven consecutive playoff games against Western Conference opponents, will advance to the next round with a win in the upcoming match in Vancouver. Despite their victory, LAFC head coach Hugo Lloris noted that the team's performance needs improvement. The match was played before a sold-out crowd at BMO Stadium, highlighting the playoff atmosphere.