MLS Cup Final Preview: LAFC’s shot at creating a soccer dynasty

The Western Conference champions will face the Columbus Crew on Saturday. A win would make them the fourth team to win back-to-back MLS championships

Los Angeles FC could not have won their first MLS Cup in a more dramatic fashion. Penalties ultimately clinched the victory over the Philadelphia Union, but everyone - certainly those of a black and gold persuasion - remembers that game last year for Gareth Bale's iconic equaliser in stoppage time of extra time. That was effectively the moment LAFC won it.

Steve Cherundolo's team will do well to replicate the spectacle of last year's MLS Cup, but they can retain their title by beating the Columbus Crew on Saturday. Only three teams (DC United, Houston Dynamo and LA Galaxy) in MLS history have ever pulled off a championship repeat. LAFC can make themselves the fourth.