Vela Scores to Edge LAFC Closer to Top Playoff Seed, With 1–1 Draw Against Minnesota

Los Angeles FC goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau (16) makes a save against Minnesota United midfielder Emanuel Reynoso (10) in the first half at Allianz Field in Saint Paul, Minn., on Sept. 13, 2022. Matt Blewett/USA TODAY Sports via Field Level Media

Carlos Vela scored a beauty in the second half as the Los Angeles FC (19–8–4, 61 points) tied the Minnesota United Loons (13–12–6, 45 points) 1–1, on the evening of Sept. 13, in Saint Paul, Minn.

Having already clinched a playoffs birth, LAFC needed a victory to lock down the Western Conference title and the No. 1 seed for the playoffs—alongside a berth in the CONCACAF competition.