LAFC vs Philadelphia Union - MLS Cup: How to watch on TV & live stream
By Chris Smith
The 2022 season reaches its climax on Saturday as LAFC host the Philadelphia Union in the final of the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Having already secured the Supporters' Shield title, LAFC have performed well to secure their MLS Cup debut, beating arch-rivals LA Galaxy 3-2 in the Western Conference Semi-Final before crushing Austin FC 3-0 last time out.
However, the Black and Gold are likely to find it far tougher against a Union side that finished level on points with them during the regular season. Jim Curtin's side enjoyed the best offensive and defensive records in MLS and only finished second in the overall standings due to winning fewer games than LAFC - the league's primary tie-breaker.
Philadelphia were given a stern test in the Eastern Conference Semi-Final, beating FC Cincinnati 1-0, before coming from behind to beat reigning champions NYCFC 3-1 last week.
It's a clash between the two best teams in MLS for the big prize and a game you certainly won't want to miss. So, read on for broadcast details, team news, and more:
Where are LAFC vs Philadelphia Union playing?
- Location: Los Angeles, California
- Stadium: Banc of California Stadium
- Date: Saturday, 5 November
- Kick-off Time: 16:00 EST / 13:00 PST / 20:00 GMT
- VAR: TBC
- Referee: TBC
What TV channel is LAFC vs Philadelphia Union on?
- US: Fox Sports Network, TUDN USA
- Canada: TSN4
- UK: Sky Sports Main Event
LAFC vs Philadelphia Union H2H Results (All-time)
- LAFC: 1 win
- Union: 0 wins
- Draws: 3
Current form (Last Five Games)
- LAFC: WWLWW
- Union: WWWLD
LAFC team news
Welsh forward Gareth Bale returned to the bench for LAFC's 3-0 win over Austin FC but didn't make the field. The 33-year-old has been struggling with a leg injury and although he's back in full training, it remains to be seen what role he'll play on Saturday.
Steve Cherundolo has an otherwise fully fit roster to choose from.
LAFC predicted lineup vs Philadelphia Union
LAFC predicted XI (4-3-3): Crepeau; Hollingshead, Murillo, Chiellini, Palacios; Cifuentes, Sanchez, Acosta; Vela, Arango, Bouanga.
Philadelphia Union team news
Alejandro Bedoya returned to action and managed the first half of the Union's 3-1 win against NYCFC and should be fit to start again on Saturday, though that would be harsh on Jack McGlynn, who has performed well during the Playoffs.
With that in mind, Jim Curtin's roster appears to be at full strength.
Philadelphia Union predicted lineup vs LAFC
Philadelphia Union predicted XI (4-3-1-2): Blake; Mbaizo, Glesnes, Elliott, Wagner; Bedoya, Martinez, Flach; Gazdag; Carranza, Uhre.
LAFC vs Philadelphia Union score prediction
This is the first time either of these two teams have reached MLS Cup, so predicting how they'll handle the occasion is very tough.
LAFC lost their only other major final in the 2020 Concacaf Champions League, but now have some players with immense experience in big games such as Bale and Giorgio Chiellini, alongside Carlos Vela.
The Union, meanwhile, have looked unstoppable all year and in another universe, could have been defending their title after only being derailed last year due to health and safety protocols.
Both sides finished level on 67 points during the regular season, highlighting how well-matched they are. However, despite LAFC holding home advantage, the Union can be likened to a steam train once they get going, while the likes of Andre Blake and Jakob Glesnes are unbreakable at the back.
Curtin's side may just edge a thrilling final.
Prediction: LAFC 2-3 Philadelphia Union
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