The MLS showdown between Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Los Angeles Football Club is set for Monday, 12 May 2025 at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver. Fans across Europe can tune in at 01:00 CEST (Italy, Germany, France, Spain) and UK viewers at 00:00 BST. In North America, kick-off times vary by region—check local listings for exact schedules.
This clash sees the league leaders host a fifth-placed LAFC side eager to close the gap in the Western Conference. With home advantage and a potent attack, Vancouver will be determined to maintain their top spot, while LAFC aim to build momentum under new coach Steve Cherundolo.
How are both teams coming into this?
Vancouver Whitecaps arrive in scintillating form, sitting top of the MLS table after nine matches. Under Jesper Sørensen, they’ve scored 22 goals (second-most in the league) and conceded just eight (second-fewest). Key contributors include striker Brian White and playmaker Ryan Gauld, both enjoying career-best campaigns.
Meanwhile, Los Angeles FC have had an up-and-down season but are unbeaten in their last three outings, including a 2-0 win over FC Dallas. With forward Christian Torres finding the net consistently and midfielder José Cifuentes controlling the tempo, LAFC possess the firepower to trouble any side.
Our forecast
We expect an open, entertaining encounter at BC Place. Vancouver’s high-press system will test LAFC’s back line, but Los Angeles counter-attacking threat could produce moments of brilliance. A tight first half is likely to open up after the break.
Given Vancouver’s home form and defensive solidity, our prediction is a 2-1 victory for the Whitecaps. However, a draw (1-1) is also a realistic outcome if LAFC absorb pressure and strike on the break.
Best odds
- Bet365: Vancouver 2.20, Draw 3.50, LAFC 3.10
- William Hill: Vancouver 2.25, Draw 3.40, LAFC 3.05
- DraftKings: Vancouver 2.30, Draw 3.55, LAFC 3.00
Possible lineups
Vancouver Whitecaps are likely to stick with a 4-2-3-1 setup. In goal, Maxime Crépeau returns between the posts. The back four could see Ranko Veselinović and Sam Adekugbe as full-backs, with Brian White and Ranko Veselinović—or alternates—central. In midfield, Ryan Gauld will pull the strings alongside Russell Teibert, feeding an attacking trio of Lucas Cavallini, Deiber Caicedo and Theo Bair. Brian White leads the line upfront.
Los Angeles FC may line up in a 3-5-2 formation to overload midfield. Maxime Crepeau is unavailable, so Kenneth Vermeer could start in goal. The three-man defence might include Aaron Long, Ilie Sánchez and Mamadou Fall. Midfield pivots José Cifuentes and Kellyn Acosta would sit deep, with Denis Bouanga and Giorgio Chiellini providing width. Christian Torres and Ryan Hollingshead would spearhead the attack.
