LAFC will need help, and a win on Decision Day, to have a chance at the playoffs.
There were plenty of scenarios coming into the match, but one constant remained. LAFC had to win. In a six pointer against the Vancouver Whitecaps, and a spot in the postseason on the line, the black and gold needed the win at home if they wanted to keep control of their destiny heading into Decision Day. Despite not getting the win, they were able to avoid the loss, finishing the match in a somewhat disappointing, 1-1 draw.
Both teams knew what was at stake, and they came out playing like it. LAFC were getting the better of Vancouver in the early stages of the match. However, it was the Whitecaps to come away with the early lead. Cristian Dájome found just enough space in the box to give his team the lead in the 15th minute.
Cristian Dajome on the counter-attack!@WhitecapsFC open the scoring in LA. pic.twitter.com/mxx6R7ImME
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) November 3, 2021
Despite going down a goal early, LAFC did well to make sure that was the only one the visitors scored in the half. Limiting the opposition’s shots, the home side was able to maintain their pressure, getting the crucial equalizer just before the end of the half. A bouncing ball in the box appeared to deflect off the Vancouver defender just enough to keep Mamadou Fall from committing offside, as he tapped in the equalizer near far post. VAR was used to confirm the goal, as the team went into the break equal on goals, but with all the momentum at home.
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▶️ Fall#LAFCvVAN 1-1 pic.twitter.com/vExL2FOpQE— LAFC (@LAFC) November 3, 2021
LAFC spent the entirety of the second half knocking on the door. More than nine of the team’s 12 shots on target came in the second half, with the squad finishing with 23 total shots, to Vancouver’s five. This match encapsulated the season for LAFC. Plenty of opportunities, but unable to fully take advantage.
The draw doesn’t eliminate the team from playoff contention, but it does make things a lot more difficult heading into Decision Day. Now, the team not only have to win on Sunday, but will need help from around the league, if they hope to extend their season. It isn’t over yet, but we are in the endgame now.
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