Daily Links: MLS Cup set as Columbus hosts LAFC

MLS News

Columbus Crew advances to MLS Cup Finals after second overtime victory of the postseason
In the first-ever postseason Hell is Real match, Columbus went on the road and defeated Supporters’ Shield winner, FC Cincinnati, 3-2 in overtime of the Eastern Conference Final, thanks once again to Christian Ramirez.

Defending champion LAFC defeats Houston to return to the MLS Cup final
With Saturday’s 2-0 win over the Houston Dynamo in the MLS Western Conference final, LAFC earned a spot in next weekend’s Cup final with the Columbus Crew, adding a 53rd match to what has already been the league’s most exhausting schedule ever.

MLS Cup 2023: Columbus Crew to host at Lower.com Field
As has been the case since 2012, the finalist with the highest regular-season point total hosts MLS Cup. If both finalists have the same amount of regular-season points, the team with more wins – or, if they’re tied in that category, better goal difference – will host MLS Cup.

Minnesota United signs DJ Taylor to two-year deal, picks up Michael Boxall’s option
The Loons finalized their end-of-season in moves that were the first since their hiring of new chief soccer officer Khaled El-Ahmad.

US Soccer News

Tim Howard elected to National Soccer Hall of Fame
A New Jersey native, Howard’s 121 USMNT caps are the eighth-most in federation history and the most by a goalkeeper. He featured in FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014) and won two CONCACAF Gold Cups in his international career.

USA vs. China: USWNT eases to 3-0 victory
Interim manager Twila Kilgore led the United States Women’s National Team to a 3-0 victory over China at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. While the unbeaten streak extends to five matches, familiar issues in the final third continue to plague the four-time world champions.

Rest of the World News

Euro ’24 draw: France to face Netherlands; Spain against Italy
A total of 21 teams have already qualified for the tournament, with a further three places still up for grabs through a playoff tournament to be played in March.