My reasoning is simple: No MLS game delivers more consistently than El Tráfico.
Of the 22 times these rivals have met, there’s never been fewer than two goals scored. There’s an average of 4.27 goals per game. We’ve had a 6-2 match, and LAFC have won 5-3 and 3-2 in the playoffs. Just think about that for a second! It’s not normal, but in the best way possible.
Whenever I’ve tuned into an El Tráfico, whoever is out there, wherever it’s played, I’m on the edge of my seat. It’s bangers, it’s controversy, it’s red cards, it’s end to end. It’s two teams that understand these almost aren’t about three points. They truly play the game for the fans.
While I never played an El Tráfico in front of the fans – I played in two of them at LAFC, but it was COVID times – it was intense, it was crazy. There was so much passion and desire on the pitch. Both teams understand the assignment. Every. Single. Time.
That brings me to what’s becoming an annual tradition in MLS: El Tráfico at the Rose Bowl on July 4th. And if last year’s match is any indication, when an MLS-record crowd of 82,210 fans showed up, we’re in for an absolute treat Thursday night (10:30 pm ET | MLS Season Pass).
LAFC and LA Galaxy are two of the best teams in MLS, with both challenging for the top spot in the Western Conference. Honestly, I can’t remember a more balanced El Tráfico in terms of form. Normally one team is doing really well and the other is doing just okay or struggling. This year, there’s almost nothing separating them.
