2. Morris and Ruidiaz Vs. Rossi and Wright-Phillips
These two clubs have had their playmakers show up in tremendous ways during this tournament. Jordan Morris and Raul Ruidiaz were key to the Seattle Sounders escaping their group, while Diego Rossi and Bradley Wright-Phillips performed exceptionally well for LAFC throughout the group stages.
More from MLS Multiplex
- Javier Milei Elected in Argentina: Potential Impacts on MLS and Signings of Argentine Players
- Orlando City and New York City FC in the Battle for Matías Arezo; Grêmio Enters Negotiations! Who Will Come Out on Top?
- USA, Honduras, Panama, and Canada Close in on a Spot in the 2024 Copa America
- De Gea Turns Down Al-Nassr’s Lucrative Offer: Speculation Points to Possible Reunion with Messi at Inter Miami
- Messi’s Magnetic Impact in the United States
One of the main storylines entering this match is how these two duos will impact the outcome. They have both been leaders offensively for their respective clubs, but can they now deliver in a one-off knockout match?
Rossi has been an early candidate for MVP of the entire MLS is Back Tournament. He has a competition-leading five goals, including four against the Galaxy, and has been hugely impactful in every match so far. He is the best player on the pitch. His teammate Wright-Phillips has scored in every single match and seems to be back to his goal-poaching best.
Morris has been brilliant for the Sounders with one goal and two assists, while Ruidiaz broke his duck in the third and final group game. They haven’t been quite as prolific as their LAFC counterparts, but they are among the very best attacking players in MLS and have hurt LAFC before. One of these four players will be the difference-maker. Who that is, however, remains to be seen.