What's Up With MLS Cup?

The UEFA Champions League, the English Premier League, NWSL (National Women’s Soccer League), and the Bundesliga–we know the list of big-league soccer can go on and on. Most of these leagues are winding down by now. But one I didn’t mention is the MLS Cup (Major League Soccer Cup), which just ended a couple of weeks ago–on December 7, 2024. It featured a surprisingly strong showing from our Seattle Sounders. 

Before the tournament, the Eastern Conference–including clubs mainly east of the Mississippi River– was led by Inter Miami CF, Columbus Crew, and FC Cincinnati, in that order. In the meantime, LAFC, LA Galaxy, and Real Salt Lake competed for first place in the Western Conference, with the Sounders trailing close behind. But quickly, the standings transformed completely.

Surprisingly, the final match came down to the LA Galaxy against the low-ranked New York Red Bulls. The Galaxy outlasted the Red Bulls, 2-1, to earn their sixth championship, a record. 

The Sounders made it all the way to the conference finals before losing to the Galaxy. From taking home the MLS Cup trophy in 2019 to becoming the first team in all of MLS history to win a Concacaf Champions League title in 2022, the Sounders continue to make a name for themselves. 

In the end, the Sounders finished the 2024 season with a total of sixteen wins, nine draws, and nine losses. Overall, the Sounders had a strong season despite not making it to the MLS Cup final. Their consistent performance and ability to compete at the highest level is a testament to the club's strength and the dedication of its players. The 2024 MLS Cup was extremely thrilling, suspenseful, and honestly unforgettable overall, with unexpected comebacks and unbelievable goals. 

While the MLS Cup concluded with the LA Galaxy being victorious, it's clear that the Seattle Sounders had a remarkable season. Their consistent performance and ability to compete at soccer’s highest level definitely are a testament to their strength, as well as the dedication of their players. The Red Bulls also put up a good fight, too, as they also landed and reached the finals, although they ultimately fell short. 

But now that it’s over, I’m starting to ask myself: Will LA Galaxy continue strong in the MLS League (February 22, 2025), or will the Seattle Sounders come out at the top this time?