MLS Cup Playoffs Conference Semi-Finals best players - ranked

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:

5. Sean Johnson (NYCFC)

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.

4. Leon Flach (Philadelphia Union)

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.

3. Sebastian Driussi (Austin FC)

As if his regular season wasn't impressive enough, Sebastian Driussi has probably been the standout star of the MLS Cup Playoffs so far. His performance against FC Dallas only served as further proof.

Sure, the Argentine was only successful with one of his six dribbles, but every time he charged forward, he caused havoc in the Dallas defense, with opponents backing off and running scared.

Driussi spearheaded every single Austin attack and his turnover, dribble, and finish to make it 2-0 on 29 minutes was just pure artistry.

In form, clinical, and working relentlessly for his team, Driussi is going to make Austin FC a tough proposition even for LAFC.

2. Andre Blake (Philadelphia Union)

It's rare one goalkeeper makes a list like this, let alone two, but then, Andre Blake is no ordinary goalkeeper.

Fresh from picking up his third MLS Goalkeeper of the Year award, the Jamaica international was inspired as the Union edged past FC Cincinnati.

Cincy's 0.84 xG may not suggest the pressure was too intense, but don't be fooled. The Orange and Blue peppered the Union goal with 15 shots, five of which were on target.

However, Blake was equal to every single one, pulling off a couple of truly spectacular saves at points in the game where the Union appeared to be losing their foothold.

The perfect goalkeeping performance.

1. Denis Bouanga (LAFC)

Denis Bouanga has turned in some excellent performances since joining LAFC, but has had to remain patient when it comes to scoring goals.

However, they came raining down at the perfect moment as Bouanga netted twice to help LAFC to a 3-2 win over arch-rivals LA Galaxy.

For his first, Bouanga outmuscled Douglas Costa - who had somehow ended up at center-back - to meet Carlos Vela's through ball and fire past Jonathan Bond.

And for his second, the Gabon international popped up at the back post to meet Ryan Hollinshead's cross, via a flick-on from Kwadwo Opoku.

Goals aside, Bouanga proved a menace throughout and Austin FC must now start drawing up plans to stop the flying winger.

Honorable mentions: Cristian Arango, Moussa Djitte, Heber, Santiago Rodriguez, Riqui Puig, Maxi Moralez.

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