Minnesota United beats LAFC 3-1, affecting playoff positioning

Minnesota United secured a 3-1 victory over Los Angeles FC on Sunday night, with Joaquín Pereyra scoring twice and defender Cherrion Valerius netting his first career goal, CBS News Los Angeles reported.

The win brought Minnesota United within two points of a Western Conference postseason berth with one match remaining, while LAFC, despite having already clinched a playoff spot, missed the opportunity to finish in the top four and earn home-field advantage in the first playoff round.

Pereyra opened the scoring in the 29th minute, followed by Valerius's goal in the 34th minute. Pereyra added a third goal in the 81st minute, assisted by rookie forward Mauricio González. LAFC's Sergio Vásquez scored an unassisted goal in the final minute to avoid a shutout.

LAFC's four-match unbeaten streak ended with this loss, and their home record dropped to 9-4-4. Minnesota United improved their road record to 6-7-4. Minnesota United will host the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday to close out the regular season, while LAFC will play at the Seattle Sounders.

This game directly impacts LAFC's playoff seeding and Minnesota United's postseason chances as both teams prepare for their final regular-season matches.