Minnesota United vs. LAFC: High Hopes & Big Stakes in 2025 MLS Season Opener

The wait is over—MLS is back! Minnesota United and Los Angeles FC, two teams with big playoff aspirations, are set to collide in their season opener this Saturday afternoon in Los Angeles. After both squads fell short in the Western Conference semifinals last season, they’re coming into this matchup hungry for a strong start.

LAFC Aims to Reclaim Western Conference Supremacy

LAFC had a dominant 2024 season, finishing atop the Western Conference with a 19-8-7 record (64 points). But their title defense ended sooner than expected, as they were knocked out in the semis by the Seattle Sounders in a narrow 2-1 defeat.

Their road to redemption has already begun, with a tough 2-1 loss to the Colorado Rapids in the CONCACAF Champions Cup earlier this week. Playing in bone-chilling six-degree temperatures in Commerce City, Colorado, LAFC struggled early but managed to grab a crucial away goal in the 86th minute thanks to defender Aaron Long. That strike could be the key when they host the Rapids in the second leg next Tuesday.

“You can’t prepare for conditions like that,” said LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo. “We usually train for the opposite—hot summer games. But we made the best of it, and that late goal could change everything.”

This season, LAFC has bolstered its squad with two European superstars: former Premier League goalkeeper Hugo Lloris and French national team striker Olivier Giroud. Both are expected to play key roles in keeping LA at the top of the conference.

Minnesota United Looks to Build on Playoff Success

Minnesota United had a solid 2024 season, finishing sixth in the West with a 15-12-7 record (52 points). The Loons made it past the first round of the playoffs by edging out Real Salt Lake on penalty kicks before falling to eventual champions LA Galaxy in the semifinals.

The Loons arrive in LA well-prepared after a six-week preseason that saw them training in subzero Minnesota temperatures. Head coach Eric Ramsay is confident in his squad’s readiness for the long road ahead.

“We’ve had a really good preseason,” Ramsay said. “But now, the real test begins.”

Minnesota’s midfield will be anchored by Finnish playmaker Robin Lod, who had a standout 2024 season with seven goals and 15 assists. Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair remains a rock between the posts, while striker Kelvin Yeboah, who scored nine goals in just 12 games last year, will be looking to start the season strong.

A Look Back & What’s at Stake

Last season, these two clubs traded 2-0 home wins. LAFC leads the all-time series with four wins, three losses, and five draws, but Minnesota has proven they can challenge the Black & Gold when it counts.

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For both teams, this game is about more than just three points—it’s about setting the tone for a championship run. LAFC is eager to reclaim their spot at the top, while Minnesota is determined to push deeper into the playoffs and chase their first MLS Cup.

As Wil Trapp put it, “We want to win a trophy—whether it’s the League Cup, Open Cup, or MLS Cup. That’s the goal.”

With star power, playoff ambition, and a fresh season ahead, expect fireworks when these two Western Conference contenders face off.