El Tráfico has been one of MLS’s signature rivalries, but right now it has never been more one-sided. The two clubs from Los Angeles exist in two different worlds.
LA FC is on the rise in the Western Conference with 50 points from 14–7–8, already in the playoffs in 4th place. Meanwhile LA Galaxy is stuck at the bottom, already eliminated, with 21 points from 4–17–9. The difference is huge , and it’s changed everything in Los Angeles.
LA Galaxy’s Struggles
The Galaxy started 2025 with the worst start in club history, winless in their first 12 matches. For a team that lifted the MLS Cup trophy last year, the fall from grace has been downright ugly. Injuries, inconsistency, and not being able to take charge of games have prevented them from any sort of rhythm.
The pressure has only gotten worse as points keep slipping away from them. Their last match, a 3–2 loss to FC Cincinnati, showed just how fragile they are, after defensive lapses cost them dearly.
- Bottom of the Table: 21 points from 29 matches, last in the West with a -24 goal differential.
- Own Goal Problems: Consistent defensive breakdowns have resulted in own goals, with even back-to-back own goals in matches.
- Unusual Losses: They even lost a game where the opponent didn’t have a single shot on target this season, a statistical anomaly that sums up their misery.
LAFC’s Momentum
Heung-Min Son’s arrival has been the turning point. The South Korean forward scored a debut hat trick that earned him MLS Player of the Week and instantly added a new dimension to LAFC’s attack.
- First team in MLS history to score a hat trick in three consecutive matches. Denis Bouanga vs San Jose (Sept 13), Heung-Min Son vs Vancouver (Sept 17), and Bouanga vs Real Salt Lake (Sept 21)
Bouanga’s impressive accomplishments have made him the first player in MLS history to score 20+ goals in three consecutive seasons, as well as the all-time leading goalscorer in LAFC history.
- Strong League Position: 4th in the West, with 50 points, a +20 goal differential and the LAFC is on a 3-game winning streak.
Their 4–1 victory over Real Salt Lake was a statement game. They had both a strong attack and defense. Another reminder that they can beat anyone in MLS.
Steve Cherundolo is the conductor, keeping the team tactically sound and focused. He’s managed the rotation and the stars perfectly to keep LAFC consistent all season long.