On October 28, LAFC will host the Vancouver Whitecaps at BMO Stadium for the opening match of their MLS Cup playoff series.

Los Angeles FC’s quest to defend their 2022 MLS Cup title begins with a Round of 16 matchup against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Denis Bouanga, the team’s captain and 20-goal scorer in 2023, sealed LAFC’s Golden Boot award on Decision Day versus the Whitecaps.

However, Vancouver’s strong pair has helped them climb the Western Conference standings this season. With 15 goals, Brian White is the team’s leading scorer, while Ryan Gauld is one of only eight players in the MLS in 2023 to have achieved double digits in both goals and assists.

The home team, LAFC, will be favored, but Vancouver shouldn’t be taken lightly in this primetime matchup.

Lineup of Los Angeles Football Club vs. Vancouver Whitecaps

Crepeau; Palenica; Murrilo; Chiellini; Palacios; Tillman; Sanchez; Bogusz; Olivera; Vela; Bouanga; are LAFC’s projected starting XI (4-3-3) against the Vancouver Whitecaps.

Team Lineup for Vancouver Whitecaps vs. Los Angeles FC

Predicted starting XI for the Vancouver Whitecaps (3-5-2): Takaoka (GK), Brown (CB), Veselinovic (CB), Laryea (M), Schopf (D), Berhalter (M), Ahmed (M), Raposo (L), White (W), Gauld (RW).

Estimating the final tally between Los Angeles FC and the Vancouver Whitecaps

Los Angeles Football Club may have blown their chance to defend their championship by finishing third in the Western Conference, but that doesn’t mean they won’t get the benefit of playing at home.

It should be easy for the Black and Gold with Giorgio Chiellini and Jesus Murillo manning the defense, as Vela is still a menace in front of goal and Bouanga is in the form of his life.

Score forecast: Los Angeles Football Club 3–1 Vancouver Whitecaps