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Dynamo Taste LAFC in Rematch of Western Conference Final

MLS Playoffs Round One

The Houston Dynamo FC travel to the Banc of California Stadium in Los Angeles to meet LAFC in the first round of the 2023 Audi MLS Cup playoffs. The match is a rematch of the 2023 Western Conference Final, which LAFC won 3-0.

Background

The Dynamo advanced to the playoffs by finishing 7th in the Western Conference with a record of 13-12-9. LAFC finished first with a record of 21-9-4.

The two teams met twice during the regular season this year, with LAFC winning both matches. LAFC won 3-1 at home on March 11 and 2-0 in Houston on August 19.

What to Watch For

The Dynamo will need to find a way to contain LAFC's high-powered offense, which is led by Gareth Bale, Carlos Vela, and Cristian Arango. The Dynamo will also need to take advantage of their chances on goal, as they have struggled to score goals this season.

LAFC will be looking to continue their strong form from the regular season. They have won their last six matches and have only lost once in their last 10.

Prediction

LAFC is the heavy favorite to win this match. They have a better team on paper and are playing at home. However, the Dynamo have a history of upsetting LAFC in the playoffs. They beat LAFC in the 2017 Western Conference semifinals and the 2018 Western Conference final.

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