Saturday’s MLS Cup Playoffs Final clash between LAFC and the Philadelphia Union may just be the most evenly matched in league history.
In one corner, we have LAFC, who lifted the Supporters’ Shield for the second time in four years, have home advantage, and are spearheaded by attacking talents such as Carlos Vela and Cristian Arango.
And in the other corner, the Philadelphia Union matched the Black and Gold for points and enjoyed the best offensive and defensive records during the regular season, only losing the Shield on games won – Major League Soccer’s primary tie-breaker.
It’s the perfect end to another incredible season and a match that is almost impossible to predict.
To demonstrate just how closely matched these two teams are, here’s our LAFC vs Philadelphia Union combined XI:
GK: Andre Blake (Philadelphia Union) – Maxime Crepeau is a very solid goalkeeper, but Andre Blake is the very best in MLS. Big saves at big moments. No debate required.
RB: Ryan Hollingshead (LAFC) – Hollingshead isn’t your typical full-back, standing at almost 6ft 2″. Indeed, his best qualities are defensive ones. However, he still pops up with important moments at the other end and is extremely versatile.
CB: Jakob Glesnes (Philadelphia Union) – Just like Blake, Glesnes is the best in MLS in his position. Powerful in the air, composed on the floor, and prone to scoring important and spectacular goals, the Norwegian is everything you’d want from a center-back.
CB: Jack Elliott (Philadelphia Union) – Elliott was among a clutch of center-backs unlucky to miss out on the Defender of the Year award thanks to Glesnes’ form. However, the two complement each other perfectly with very similar qualities.
LB: Kai Wagner (Philadelphia Union) – The best left-back in MLS debate ultimately boils down to Kai Wagner vs Diego Palacios. The Union man wins out here thanks to his elite creativity, with 82 chances created and eight primary assists during the regular season. There’s a reason Leeds United are after him.
CM: Jose Cifuentes (LAFC) – Cifuentes is another who looks on the verge of moving to Europe. The Ecuador international hit seven goals and six primary assists during the regular season while displaying excellent ball-carrying and defensive skills. The Premier League does not look beyond his grasp.
CM: Jose Martinez…
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