LAFC Wins MLS Playoff Opener Over Austin FC 2-1

Los Angeles FC secured a 2-1 victory over Austin FC in the first game of their MLS playoff Round One series, with Nathan Ordaz scoring the decisive late goal after coming off the bench. The match saw an own goal by Austin's Brendan Hines-Ike give LAFC the initial lead before Jon Gallagher equalized for Austin. Star forward Son Heung-Min, making his MLS playoff debut, was instrumental in creating chances and setting up the winning goal, earning Man of the Match honors for his outstanding performance. LAFC maintained their strong playoff record by scoring in 16 of their last 17 games and remain unbeaten in Game 1 fixtures under the current postseason format. Austin FC struggled to mount consistent attacking pressure, with their manager's cautious tactics failing to pay off. LAFC will now travel to Austin for the second game, holding the advantage in the best-of-three series as they aim to advance further in the playoffs.