The 2025 MLS Conference semi-finals began with an exciting matchup as the Vancouver Whitecaps triumphed over LAFC in a nail-biting penalty shootout.
After being eliminated by LAFC in the last two postseasons, Vancouver finally exacted their revenge, securing a spot in the Western Conference Finals for the first time in the club’s history.
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Goalscorers: Sabbi 39′, Laborda 45+1′; Son 60′, 90+5′
Penalty Shootout Result: Vancouver Whitecaps 4 – 3 LAFC
Vancouver started the match with vigor, led by Canada international Ali Ahmed, who significantly challenged LAFC’s defense during the first half.
The Whitecaps took the lead when goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka launched a long ball over the LAFC backline, finding Emmanuel Sabbi, who skillfully chipped it over the advancing Hugo Lloris.
A few minutes later, after Thomas Müller’s header was blocked by Lloris during a corner, Mathías Laborda capitalized on the rebound, sliding the ball through Lloris’s legs to double Vancouver’s lead.
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With key substitutions made by LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo, the second half saw LAFC take control. Son Heung-min scored after a chaotic goalmouth scramble, where he had two attempts saved before finding the net.
In a dramatic turn, Son stunned the Whitecaps by curling a brilliant free-kick into the top left corner in the dying moments of stoppage time, completing his brace and leveling the game.
With celebrations erupting, the match moved into extra time.
After two intense extra-time periods, during which Vancouver ended up with nine men, and LAFC narrowly missed several chances, the match progressed to penalties.
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Ultimately, Laborda converted the winning penalty, sending Lloris the wrong way and finding the top-right corner to secure the victory for Vancouver.
The Whitecaps will face either San Diego or Minnesota United for a shot at the MLS Cup final, though they will be without MLS Defender of the Year Tristan Blackmon, who was sent off with a second yellow card prior to Son’s equalizer.
Meanwhile, LAFC’s remarkable late-season resurgence led by Son Heung-min has come to a close in the 2025 MLS season.
📸 Jeff Vinnick – 2025 Getty Images