MLS Cup Playoffs Conference Semi-Finals best players

After another thrilling round of matches, the MLS Cup Playoffs Conference Finals are set.

The Philadelphia Union were the first to make it through, beating FC Cincinnati 1-0 in a tight, hotly-contested showdown at Subaru Park. Just hours later, Supporters’ Shield winners LAFC came out on top 3-2 in another thrilling El Trafico clash against the LA Galaxy.

And on Sunday, defending champions NYCFC set up a second successive Eastern Conference clash with the Union, impressively beating a strong CF Montreal side 3-1 away from home. That was followed by Austin FC coming out 2-1 winners against Texas rivals FC Dallas.

To win in such a high-stakes match, you need your best players to show up. So, here are the top five from the Conference Semi-Finals:

Okay, so Sean Johnson probably should’ve done better with Djordje Mihailovic’s header but that proved nothing more than an 85th-minute consolation goal coming when NYCFC were already 3-0.

Besides, by that point, Johnson did more than enough to see the defending champions through, making no fewer than seven saves and conceding just once despite facing 2.48 xGOT.

Six of Johnson’s seven saves came from shots inside the box, with a number coming dangerously close to defying physics, while the USMNT goalkeeper also recovered possession 11 times for his time, mopping up effectively behind the NYCFC defense.

The Cityzens will need more of this from Johnson if they’re to defend their title.

Leon Flach is unquestionably known best for his work rate and defensive output. He certainly showed that against FC Cincinnati, making two tackles, two blocks, eight recoveries, and one interception.

What he’s not quite as well known for is scoring goals, but he still managed to rifle home the winning goals as the Union came out on top 1-0 in a tough battle against Cincy.

Incredibly, that was Flach’s first goal of the season and just his second in 79 appearances for the Union.

As if his regular season wasn’t impressive enough, Sebastian Driussi has probably been the standout star of the…