:MLS Cup 2023

{{further|2023 MLS Cup Playoffs}}

The MLS Cup is the post-season championship of Major League Soccer (MLS), a professional club soccer league in the United States and Canada. The 2023 season was the 28th in MLS history and was contested by 29 teams organized into the Eastern and Western conferences.{{cite news |last=Mather |first=Victor |date=February 23, 2023 |title=M.L.S. Returns With Another New Team and a Whole New Way to Watch |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/23/sports/soccer/mls-preview-2023.html |work=The New York Times |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} Each club played 34 matches during the regular season from March to October, facing each team in their conference at least twice and some teams in the other conference once.{{cite press release |date=December 20, 2022 |title=Major League Soccer Announces 2023 Season Schedule |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/major-league-soccer-announces-2023-season-schedule |publisher=Major League Soccer |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The MLS Cup Playoffs, which ran from late October to early December, were expanded to include the top nine teams in each conference playing over five rounds. Most rounds were a single-elimination match hosted by the higher-seeded team; the exception was Round One, which was a best-of-three series with the first and third (if necessary) match hosted by the higher-seeded team.{{cite news |last=Dart |first=Tom |date=October 21, 2023 |title=By surfing the playoff expansion trend, MLS has devalued the regular season |url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2023/oct/21/mls-playoffs-expansion-decision-day-soccer |work=The Guardian |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Chapley |first=Carter |date=October 22, 2023 |title=Everything you need to know about the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs |url=https://www.fccincinnati.com/news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-2023-mls-cup-playoffs |publisher=FC Cincinnati |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}

The finalists, Columbus Crew and Los Angeles FC, both finished third in their respective conferences. They did not play each other during the 2023 regular season, but Los Angeles has won all three prior meetings with a combined goal difference of 7–0.{{cite news |last=Gay |first=Colin |date=December 6, 2023 |title=What channel is the 2023 MLS Cup game on? How to watch Columbus Crew vs. LAFC Saturday |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/12/06/how-to-watch-columbus-crew-vs-lafc-in-2023-mls-cup-tv-channel-streaming-info/71825125007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 6, 2023}} The winner of the MLS Cup earned a bye to the round of 16 in the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup, the premier club competition for the continental confederation.{{cite news |date=October 25, 2023 |title=2024 Concacaf Champions Cup: Schedule, qualifiers & draw procedure |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/2024-concacaf-champions-cup-schedule-qualifiers-draw-procedure |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The Crew had already qualified for the tournament as one of the top three teams in the regular season Supporters' Shield standings. The MLS Cup winner is also set to host the 2024 Campeones Cup, which will be played against the winner of the Campeón de Campeones from Mexico.{{cite news |last=Bonn |first=Kyle |date=September 27, 2023 |title=Trophies that Lionel Messi can win with Inter Miami in USA: MLS, CONCACAF, individual silverware up for grabs |url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/soccer/news/trophies-lionel-messi-win-inter-miami-mls-silverware-usa/sndt81lmju1kmjsuafuvpjpu |work=The Sporting News |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}

{{main|2023 Columbus Crew season}}

The Columbus Crew is one of the ten teams from the inaugural MLS season and appeared in three previous editions of the MLS Cup, winning in 2008 and 2020, and losing in 2015.{{cite news |date=December 12, 2020 |title=Crew completes fairy-tale season with MLS Cup win over Sounders |url=https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/mls/mls-cup-final-seattle-sounders-columbus-crew-1.5839413 |work=CBC Sports |agency=The Canadian Press |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} An attempt to relocate the franchise to Austin, Texas, in 2018 was prevented through the sale to an ownership group led by Jimmy Haslam.{{cite news |last=Das |first=Andrew |date=December 28, 2018 |title=M.L.S. Reaches Agreement to Keep Crew in Columbus |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/28/sports/columbus-crew-mls-precourt.html |work=The New York Times |accessdate=December 7, 2023}} During the 2022 season, the team finished two points short of a playoff berth and failed to qualify for the postseason for the second consecutive year. Columbus finished the season with 16 draws and only 8 losses under head coach Caleb Porter, who was dismissed after the last match of the year.{{cite news |last=Johnson |first=Bailey |date=October 10, 2022 |title=Columbus Crew coach Caleb Porter fired after missing playoffs for second straight year |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2022/10/10/columbus-crew-fire-coach-caleb-porter/69552598007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} He was replaced in December by Wilfried Nancy, who was hired from CF Montréal alongside three of his assistant coaches.{{cite news |date=February 24, 2023 |title=2023 MLS team previews: What has your club been up to? What would be a successful season? |url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/37636552/your-club-to |publisher=ESPN |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} Nancy and general manager Tim Bezbatchenko made few acquisitions during the offseason, signing Christian Ramirez from Scottish side Aberdeen F.C., and traded away veteran players Jonathan Mensah and Artur.{{cite news |last=Bogert |first=Tom |date=February 19, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew 2023 Season Preview |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/columbus-crew-2023-season-preview |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Arace |first=Michael |date=August 3, 2023 |title=Arace: Quiet winter gave way to busy summer in transformation of Columbus Crew |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/08/03/tim-bezbatchenko-wilfried-nancy-have-retooled-columbus-crew-roster-diego-rossi-lucas-zelarayan/70513110007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}

The team opened the season playing a possession-oriented style favored by Nancy that used players on the wing to create opportunities to attack and score.{{cite news |last=Johnson |first=Bailey |date=April 5, 2023 |title='It's everything we work on': Columbus Crew demonstrating grasp of Wilfried Nancy's style |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/04/05/aidan-morris-columbus-crew-understanding-wilfried-nancy-system/70079884007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} During their first seven matches, the Crew scored 17 goals and earned four wins—including three in a row in the lead up to their first away win.{{cite news |last=Johnson |first=Bailey |date=April 9, 2023 |title=Three things we learned from the Columbus Crew's first road win of the season |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/04/09/mls-analysis-columbus-crew-get-first-road-win-beat-dc-united/70093576007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} Starting goalkeeper Eloy Room was injured in late March and replaced by Patrick Schulte, in his rookie season after a stint in reserve league MLS Next Pro; Schulte ultimately won the starting role due to his compatibility with Nancy's system.{{cite news |last=Hedger |first=Brian |date=July 13, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew, Eloy Room agree to terminate goalkeeper's contract |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/07/13/eloy-rooms-run-with-columbus-crew-ending-with-contract-termination/70412379007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} Columbus won once in a seven-match stretch in April and May, including three consecutive losses, which dropped them to tenth place in the Eastern Conference.{{cite news |last=Johnson |first=Bailey |date=May 31, 2023 |title='We're close': Columbus Crew host Colorado Rapids with eye on getting back on track |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/05/31/columbus-crew-host-colorado-rapids-preview-prediction-analysis/70267956007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}

The Crew began an unbeaten streak at the end of May that lasted until July with five wins and three draws in eight matches; the streak ended with a road loss to the Portland Timbers just prior to the 2023 Leagues Cup group stage during a suspension for Nancy for "irresponsible behavior" in a prior match.{{cite news |last=Arace |first=Michael |date=July 19, 2023 |title=Arace: Columbus Crew's Milos Degenek looks to be aimed toward transfer home to Serbia |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/columns/2023/07/19/columbus-crew-defender-milos-degenek-could-leave-in-transfer-window-serbia-red-star-belgrade/70430887007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Hedger |first=Brian |date=July 11, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew coach Wilfried Nancy, staffer fined, suspended multiple matches |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/07/11/columbus-crews-nancy-fitness-coach-fined-suspended/70397225007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} Columbus finished atop their group in the Leagues Cup, ahead of Club América and St. Louis City SC, but were eliminated in their first knockout match against Minnesota United FC.{{cite news |last=Jardy |first=Adam |date=August 4, 2023 |title=Minnesota United eliminates Columbus Crew from Leagues Cup on penalty kicks |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/08/04/penalty-kicks-sink-columbus-crew-in-leagues-cup-loss-to-minnesota/70530893007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The summer transfer window saw the departure of Room to the Netherlands, attacking midfielder Lucas Zelarayán to Saudi Arabia, and defender Miloš Degenek to Serbia.{{cite news |last1=Bogert |first1=Tom |last2=Tenorio |first2=Paul |date=August 1, 2023 |title=Crew signing Uruguay forward Diego Rossi: What he brings to Columbus' attack |url=https://theathletic.com/4739505/2023/08/01/diego-rossi-transfer-columbus-crew/ |work=The Athletic |url-access=subscription |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Arace |first=Michael |date=August 2, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew acquire left wing Diego Rossi from Turkish Super League |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/08/02/columbus-crew-acquire-left-wing-diego-rossi-from-turkish-super-league-mls/70510829007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The club then acquired wingback Julian Gressel from Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Diego Rossi from Fenerbahçe S.K. in Turkey to replace Zelarayán and provide more attacking options.{{cite news |last=Uribarri |first=Jaime |date=August 17, 2023 |title=Diego Rossi brings "own quality" to Columbus Crew after Zelarayán transfer |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/the-next-zelarayan-new-columbus-crew-dp-diego-rossi-has-his-own-quality |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Bogert |first=Tom |date=August 22, 2023 |title=Most interesting MLS transfer windows: How the Crew, Galaxy, LAFC and NYCFC fared |url=https://theathletic.com/4796433/2023/08/22/mls-transfers-crew-galaxy-lafc-nycfc/ |work=The Athletic |url-access=subscription |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}

File:Columbus Crew celebrating Eastern Conference championship (PXL 20231203 015204693) (cropped).jpg players celebrate after they defeated FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference Final.]]

The regular season resumed in mid-August with Columbus at sixth place in the Eastern Conference standings and improved to fifth following a pair of victories against rivals FC Cincinnati and Toronto FC.{{cite news |last=Jardy |first=Adam |date=August 8, 2023 |title=After being bounced from Leagues Cup, what is next for the Columbus Crew? |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/08/08/rest-assimilation-now-atop-to-do-list-for-revamped-columbus-crew/70540042007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Jardy |first=Adam |date=August 26, 2023 |title=Diego Rossi, Columbus Crew stay hot, blank visiting Toronto FC |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/08/26/columbus-crew-diego-rossi-stay-hot-in-blanking-of-toronto-fc/70691771007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The Crew lost only two of their remaining matches—on the road to Houston Dynamo FC and Orlando City SC—and clinched a playoff berth on September 20 with a 3–0 victory against Chicago Fire FC.{{cite news |last=Gay |first=Colin |date=September 22, 2023 |title=What's next for the Crew after clinching MLS playoff spot? 'We're not satisfied' |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/09/22/columbus-crew-mls-postseason-preview-wilfried-nancy-yaw-yeboah/70923914007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Gay |first=Colin |date=October 21, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew secure three seed in 2023 MLS playoffs after win against CF Montreal |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/10/21/columbus-crew-secure-three-seed-in-2023-mls-playoffs-beat-cf-montreal/71275135007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The team finished third in the Eastern Conference, their best league performance since 2009, and were the league's highest scoring team with 67 goals during the regular season.{{cite news |last=Arace |first=Michael |date=October 25, 2023 |title=Arace: Columbus Crew need to tune up set-piece defense, but they don't need brake pads |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/columns/2023/10/25/as-mls-playoffs-loom-should-the-columbus-crew-change-who-they-are/71310598007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} Cucho Hernández led the team in scoring with 16 goals—the fourth-highest total among MLS players in 2023—and was named to the MLS Best XI.{{cite press release |date=November 28, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew Forward Cucho Hernández Named to 2023 MLS Best XI Presented by Continental Tire |url=https://www.columbuscrew.com/news/columbus-crew-forward-cucho-hernandez-named-to-2023-mls-best-xi-presented-by-con |publisher=Columbus Crew |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} Columbus also maintained an unbeaten streak of 15 matches at home and earned home-field advantage in the first round of the playoffs.{{cite news |date=November 1, 2023 |title=What to know as Columbus Crew hosts first playoff game at Lower.com Field |url=https://www.10tv.com/article/sports/local-sports/columbus-crew-host-first-playoff-game-at-lowercom-field/530-f0e13334-307b-48e8-92dc-d9b8fcb67cce |publisher=10 WBNS-TV |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}

The Crew faced sixth-seeded Atlanta United FC in Round One, which was a best-of-three series with no extra time. In the first leg at home, the first playoff match to be played at Lower.com Field, Columbus won 2–0 through a pair of goals from Hernández while the away side were without key midfielder Thiago Almada.{{cite news |last=Wright |first=Ben |date=November 1, 2023 |title=Cucho Hernández gives Columbus Crew "huge night" in playoffs |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/cucho-hernandez-makes-columbus-crew-create-memories-in-playoffs |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 3, 2023}} The team were unable to clinch a playoff sweep the following week in Atlanta, where they lost 4–2 in the second leg. The hosts withstood a Columbus equalizer to take the lead at half-time and scored two more times after the 80th minute to force a third match in the series.{{cite news |last=Roberson |first=Doug |date=November 7, 2023 |title=Atlanta United stays alive with home win in MLS playoffs |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-united/atlanta-united-stays-alive-with-4-2-win-in-mls-playoffs/SO75PLYR25ADFIW5VJAB6A3JXE/ |work=Atlanta Journal-Constitution |url-access=limited |accessdate=December 3, 2023}} In the deciding match at home, the Crew scored three goals in the first half and won 4–2 to advance to the Conference Semifinals in Orlando, Florida.{{cite news |last=Gay |first=Colin |date=November 12, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew advance to Eastern Conference semifinals, beat Atlanta United in first round |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/11/12/columbus-crew-beats-atlanta-united-in-mls-playoffs-advances-to-semifinals/71561779007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}

With a 2–0 win against Orlando City SC in extra time, Columbus broke a 16-match winless streak in road playoff matches that began in 2002. Shortly after an extra time substitution, Ramírez opened the scoring for the visitors in the 93rd minute and was followed by Hernández in the 118th minute.{{cite news |date=November 25, 2023 |title=Crew beat Orlando City 2-0 in OT to advance to Eastern Conference Final |url=https://www.sfchronicle.com/sports/article/crew-beat-orlando-city-2-0-in-ot-to-advance-to-18514604.php |work=San Francisco Chronicle |agency=Associated Press |accessdate=December 3, 2023}} The Eastern Conference Final was hosted by Supporters' Shield winners FC Cincinnati, rivals to Columbus in the Hell is Real derby, and would also decide the host of the MLS Cup final.{{cite news |last=Brennan |first=Pat |date=December 1, 2023 |title=MLS Cup is coming to Ohio, but who will host it? |url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/soccer/fc-cincinnati/2023/12/01/fc-cincinnati-or-columbus-crew-will-host-mls-cup-in-ohio/71750929007/ |work=The Cincinnati Enquirer |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} FC Cincinnati led 2–0 at half-time with a Brandon Vázquez strike and stoppage time free kick by Luciano Acosta; the hosts were able to maintain a shutout despite the suspension of defender Matt Miazga and the Crew's advantage in possession.{{cite news |last=Mac Kay |first=Brianna |date=December 2, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew advances to MLS Cup Finals after second overtime victory of the postseason |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/12/02/columbus-crew-advances-to-mls-cup-finals-after-second-overtime-victory-in-postseason/71774981007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Brennan |first=Pat |date=December 2, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew rallies late for win over FC Cincinnati in MLS playoffs |url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/sports/soccer/fc-cincinnati/2023/12/02/columbus-crew-advances-to-mls-cup-final-over-fc-cincinnati/71786310007/ |work=The Cincinnati Enquirer |accessdate=December 3, 2023}} After a pair of substitutions and adjustments from Nancy, Columbus rallied to score twice before the end of regulation time—an own goal by Alvas Powell created by Gressel's cross and an equalizer from Diego Rossi in the 86th minute. Ramírez scored the winning goal in the 115th minute and clinched a 3–2 victory for the Crew that sent the team to the MLS Cup final.

{{main|2023 Los Angeles FC season}}

Los Angeles FC (LAFC) entered MLS as an expansion team in 2018, becoming the third club based in the Los Angeles area following the folding of Chivas USA a few years prior.{{cite news |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |date=April 27, 2018 |title=How LAFC rose from the ashes of Chivas USA and aims to be the team of Los Angeles |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/la-sp-lafc-creation-20180427-htmlstory.html |work=Los Angeles Times |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} In their second season, they won the Supporters' Shield, and were a finalist in the 2020 CONCACAF Champions League the following year.{{cite news |last=Alexander |first=Jim |date=November 4, 2022 |title=LAFC's 5-year journey reaches a crescendo |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2022/11/04/alexander-lafcs-5-year-journey-reaches-a-crescendo/ |work=Los Angeles Daily News |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} Under first-year head coach Steve Cherundolo in 2022, LAFC won the Supporters' Shield with 67 points—tied with the Philadelphia Union but ahead on the total wins tiebreaker—and the MLS Cup at home.{{cite news |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |date=November 1, 2022 |title=LAFC hosts unique MLS Cup final featuring league superpowers |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/newsletter/2022-11-01/soccer-newsletter-lafc-mls-cup-soccer |work=Los Angeles Times |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Sigal |first=Jonathan |date=November 6, 2022 |title=Steve Cherundolo: LAFC's MLS Cup-winning coach flaunts "two titles" |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/steve-cherundolo-lafc-s-mls-cup-winning-coach-flaunts-two-titles |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} During the offseason, the team lost Gareth Bale to retirement, Cristian Arango to a transfer, and Latif Blessing in the expansion draft. Defender Aaron Long was acquired through free agency and midfielder Timothy Tillman was signed from Germany, but LAFC ended the winter transfer window with an open Designated Player slot.{{cite news |last=Bogert |first=Tom |date=February 19, 2023 |title=LAFC 2023 Season Preview |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/lafc-2023-season-preview |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}

The team were scheduled to open the regular season against crosstown El Tráfico rivals LA Galaxy, but the match at the Rose Bowl was postponed due to regional floods and potential thunderstorms.{{cite news |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |date=February 24, 2023 |title=Galaxy-LAFC game at the Rose Bowl postponed until July 4 |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/story/2023-02-24/galaxy-lafc-game-rose-bowl-postponed-weather-el-trafico |work=Los Angeles Times |accessdate=December 3, 2023}} LAFC were undefeated in their first eight matches of the regular season while also competing in the CONCACAF Champions League, where they finished as runners-up.{{cite news |last=Gross |first=Josh |date=May 12, 2023 |title=LAFC looks for bounce-back game against Real Salt Lake |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2023/05/12/lafc-looks-for-bounce-back-game-against-real-salt-lake/ |work=Los Angeles Daily News |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Gross |first=Josh |date=June 6, 2023 |title=After CCL disappointment, LAFC begins grueling stretch of MLS matches |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2023/06/06/after-ccl-disappointment-lafc-begins-grueling-stretch-of-mls-matches/ |work=Los Angeles Daily News |accessdate=December 3, 2023}} The team moved to the top of the Western Conference in late May, ahead of the Champions League final,{{cite news |last=Butler |first=Dylan |date=May 21, 2023 |title=LAFC take Western Conference lead as CCL looms: "We couldn't be happier" |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/lafc-take-western-conference-lead-as-ccl-grows-closer-we-couldn-t-be-happier |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 3, 2023}} but faced an 18-day stretch in June with six matches due to fixtures that were rescheduled to accommodate the continental campaign. LAFC lost four matches during the stretch as well as the postponed Rose Bowl fixture on July 4 and dropped to third in the conference standings.{{cite news |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |date=July 3, 2023 |title=Rose Bowl is poised to host a record-setting El Tráfico showdown with extra boom |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/story/2023-07-03/how-lafc-galaxy-game-was-rescheduled-rose-bowl-july-4 |work=Los Angeles Times |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |date=July 4, 2023 |title=Galaxy hold off LAFC in front of record crowd at Rose Bowl |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/story/2023-07-04/lafc-galaxy-july-4-mls-game-recap |work=Los Angeles Times |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}

As defending MLS Cup champions, LAFC had a bye to the knockout stage of the Leagues Cup and won two matches before being eliminated by C.F. Monterrey in the quarterfinals.{{cite news |last=Gross |first=Josh |date=August 10, 2023 |title=C.F. Monterrey should provide LAFC with stiffer test in Leagues Cup quarterfinal |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2023/08/10/c-f-monterrey-should-provide-lafc-with-stiffer-test-in-leagues-cup-quarterfinal/ |work=Los Angeles Daily News |accessdate=December 4, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Gross |first=Josh |date=August 11, 2023 |title=Monterrey drops LAFC in Leagues Cup play at Rose Bowl |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2023/08/11/monterrey-drops-lafc-in-leagues-cup-play-at-rose-bowl/ |work=Los Angeles Daily News |accessdate=December 4, 2023}} During the summer transfer window, the team traded forward Kwadwo Opoku to Montreal and lost midfielder José Cifuentes to Rangers F.C. in Scotland, freeing up space for several attacking players on under-22 and Designated Player contracts. Filip Krastev joined on loan from Lommel S.K. alongside forward Mario González and midfielder Cristian Olivera in August.{{cite news |last=Sigal |first=Jonathan |date=August 7, 2023 |title=MLS transfers: Biggest moves this summer beyond Lionel Messi |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/mls-transfers-biggest-moves-this-summer-beyond-lionel-messi |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 4, 2023}} LAFC returned to regular season action with a win against the Colorado Rapids, but lost their next three matches and remained third in the West.{{cite news |last=Hunte |first=Sydney |date=September 10, 2023 |title=LAFC "punished" by Timbers as losing streak reaches three games |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/lafc-punished-by-timbers-as-losing-streak-reaches-three-games |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 4, 2023}} The team finished the regular season with one loss in their final seven matches and clinched the third seed in the West with a draw against Vancouver Whitecaps FC on Decision Day.{{cite news |date=October 21, 2023 |title=Whitecaps miss two penalty kicks, settle for draw with LAFC |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/mls/article/whitecaps-miss-two-penalty-kicks-settle-for-draw-with-lafc/ |work=Sportsnet |agency=The Canadian Press |accessdate=December 4, 2023}} Dénis Bouanga led the league in scoring and won the MLS Golden Boot with 20 goals and 7 assists during the regular season.{{cite news |date=October 21, 2023 |title=LAFC's Dénis Bouanga wins 2023 MLS Golden Boot presented by Audi |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/lafc-s-denis-bouanga-wins-2023-mls-golden-boot-presented-by-audi |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 4, 2023}}

The team faced Vancouver again in Round One of the playoffs, which began with a 5–2 win at home. Bouanga and defender Ryan Hollingshead each scored twice and were joined by Jesús Murillo after the lead was lost twice in the first half by the Whitecaps scoring equalizers.{{cite news |last=Gross |first=Josh |date=October 28, 2023 |title=LAFC takes Game 1 in playoff series vs. Vancouver |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2023/10/28/lafc-takes-game-1-in-playoff-series-vs-vancouver/ |work=Los Angeles Daily News |accessdate=December 4, 2023}} LAFC completed their sweep of the best-of-three series with a 1–0 win in Vancouver; the lone goal was scored by Bouanga from a penalty kick in the first half. A second goal for Bouanga in stoppage time was voided by the video assistant referee due to an offside; the play also included referee Timothy Ford's obstruction of a Whitecaps player, which resulted in the ejection of coach Vanni Sartini.{{cite news |last=Adams |first=J.J. |date=November 5, 2023 |title=LAFC 1, Whitecaps 0: Refs ruin the night for Caps and their record crowd |url=https://theprovince.com/sports/soccer/mls/vancouver-whitecaps/la-galaxy-playoff-recap-referees |work=The Province |accessdate=December 4, 2023}} LAFC traveled to face second-seeded Seattle Sounders FC in the Conference Semifinals and won 1–0 from a Bouanga goal and several saves by Maxime Crépeau. The match, which ended a 19-match home unbeaten streak in the playoffs for the Sounders, was marked by allegations of unbalanced calls from the referees, including a potential red card offense that was not reviewed.{{cite news |last=Evans |first=Jayda |date=November 26, 2023 |title=Sounders can't find equalizer against LAFC, fall in conference semifinal |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/sounders/sounders-cant-find-equalizer-against-lafc-fall-in-conference-semifinal/ |work=The Seattle Times |accessdate=December 4, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Booth |first=Tim |date=November 26, 2023 |title=Golden Boot winner Denis Bouanga scores only goal as LAFC knocks out Seattle 1-0 in MLS playoffs |url=https://apnews.com/article/lafc-sounders-score-bouanga-86d932a7bd88b66367c584fc780315ea |agency=Associated Press |accessdate=December 4, 2023}}

LAFC hosted the Western Conference Final against fourth-place Houston Dynamo FC, who had defeated them in two consecutive matches in June.{{cite news |last=Gross |first=Josh |date=December 1, 2023 |title=LAFC has found its form since pair of June losses to Dynamo |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2023/12/01/lafc-has-found-its-form-since-pair-of-june-losses-to-dynamo/ |work=Los Angeles Daily News |accessdate=December 4, 2023}} Hollingshead scored before half-time from a rebound off goalkeeper Steve Clark, who had saved a header by Giorgio Chiellini on a corner kick. Chiellini led the team's defense to a shutout despite the Dynamo's possession and creative play; an own goal in the 80th minute from LAFC-turned-Houston defender Franco Escobar gave the home side a 2–0 victory and clinched a second consecutive Western Conference championship.{{cite news |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |date=December 2, 2023 |title=Defending champion LAFC defeats Houston to return to the MLS Cup final |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/lafc/story/2023-12-02/lafc-defeats-houston-dynamo-returns-mls-cup-final |work=Los Angeles Times |accessdate=December 4, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Beacham |first=Greg |date=December 3, 2023 |title=LAFC returns to MLS Cup final with 2-0 win over Houston in Western Conference final |url=https://www.inquirer.com/soccer/mls-playoffs-lafc-houston-dynamo-score-20231203.html |work=The Philadelphia Inquirer |agency=Associated Press |accessdate=December 4, 2023}} Steve Cherundolo became the third head coach to lead a team to the MLS Cup final in his first two seasons after Bruce Arena with D.C. United and Brian Schmetzer with Seattle Sounders FC. The MLS Cup final was the team's 53rd competitive match in 2023—the most for an MLS team in a single year—due to their participation in the Champions League, Leagues Cup, U.S. Open Cup, and the Campeones Cup.{{cite news |last=Alexander |first=Jim |date=December 3, 2023 |title=Alexander: After a manic regular season, LAFC can still lift the MLS Cup |url=https://www.dailynews.com/2023/12/03/alexander-after-a-manic-regular-season-lafc-can-still-lift-the-mls-cup/ |work=Los Angeles Daily News |accessdate=December 3, 2023}} LAFC traveled over {{convert|63,000|mi|km}} during their season, which lasted 41 weeks.{{cite news |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |date=December 3, 2023 |title='We faced a lot of adversity': How LAFC made the MLS Cup final |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/lafc/story/2023-12-03/lafc-makes-mls-cup-final-overcoming-adversity |work=Los Angeles Times |accessdate=December 3, 2023}}

:Note: In all results below, the score of the finalist is given first (H: home; A: away).

The final was played at Lower.com Field, a 20,371-seat soccer-specific stadium that is home to the Columbus Crew.{{cite news |last=Myers |first=Jacob |date=June 29, 2021 |title='Bold, dynamic, innovative': Columbus Crew's new stadium officially opens ahead of first match Saturday |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/2021/06/29/bold-dynamic-innovative-columbus-crews-new-stadium-officially-opens/7796169002/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The Crew won hosting rights as the highest-remaining seed in the playoffs.{{cite news |date=December 2, 2023 |title=MLS Cup 2023: Columbus Crew to host at Lower.com Field |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/mls-cup-2023-hosting-scenarios-where-will-the-final-be-held |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The stadium opened in July 2021 to replace Historic Crew Stadium, the first soccer-specific venue built for an MLS team. The 2023 final is the fourth MLS Cup to be played in Columbus, with the 2001, 2015, and 2020 finals all played at Historic Crew Stadium.{{cite news |date=June 18, 2021 |title=Columbus Crew to host final match at Historic Crew Stadium |url=https://www.10tv.com/article/sports/soccer/columbus-crew/columbus-crew-to-host-final-match-at-historic-crew-stadium/530-036a5141-ec99-4895-9b9a-cf08f441df36 |publisher=10 WBNS-TV |accessdate=December 6, 2023}} Lower.com Field previously hosted the finals for the MLS Next Pro Cup in 2022 and 2023, which both featured reserve team Columbus Crew 2.{{cite news |date=December 5, 2023 |title=Need to Know: MLS Cup presented by Audi |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/need-to-know-mls-cup-presented-by-audi |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 7, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Kennedy |first=Paul |date=October 16, 2023 |title=MLS Next Pro Cup: Crew 2 goes for repeat |url=https://www.socceramerica.com/publications/article/97833/mls-next-pro-cup-crew-2-goes-for-repeat.html |work=Soccer America |url-access=subscription |accessdate=December 7, 2023}} The Crew offered free rally towels to 18,000 attendees and opened its fan festival at the stadium four hours prior to kickoff.{{cite news |date=December 7, 2023 |title=Match Guide: The MLS Cup Final |url=https://www.columbuscrew.com/news/match-guide-the-mls-cup-final |publisher=Columbus Crew |accessdate=December 9, 2023}}

Tickets for the final were distributed by MLS and Ticketmaster with a public sale scheduled for December 5 following a series of pre-sales for league sponsors and Columbus season ticket holders.{{cite news |last=Mac Kay |first=Brianna |date=December 4, 2023 |title=How much are tickets to see Columbus Crew in the MLS Cup Final at Lower.com Field? |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/12/04/columbus-crew-ticket-prices-for-mls-cup-final-at-lower-com-field/71793374007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 6, 2023}} The online code for the league presale was leaked and resulted in sellouts for many sections, including the Nordecke supporter's section, with seats instead listed for scalped for resale on the secondary ticket markets. The Crew announced that the presale tickets would be cancelled and a new presale for season ticket holders would begin the following day, with public sales also delayed by a day.{{cite news |last=Arace |first=Michael |date=December 5, 2023 |title=Arace: League mangles ticket rollout for MLS Cup Final, Crew and fans provide first aid |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/columns/2023/12/05/league-mangles-ticket-rollout-for-mls-cup-crew-and-fans-provide-aid/71808539007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 6, 2023}}{{cite news |last1=Conn |first1=Adam |last2=Halperin |first2=Eric |date=December 5, 2023 |title=Crew tickets back on sale Tuesday, Wednesday after online presale debacle |url=https://www.nbc4i.com/sports/mls/crew-tickets-back-on-sale-tuesday-wednesday-after-online-debacle/ |publisher=NBC4 |accessdate=December 6, 2023}}

The MLS Cup final was broadcast worldwide for free in English and Spanish on MLS Season Pass, a subscription streaming service operated by Apple under their Apple TV+ brand.{{cite news |date=December 2, 2023 |title=MLS Cup 2023: Columbus Crew vs. defending champions LAFC |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/mls-cup-2023-columbus-crew-to-host-defending-champions-lafc |work=MLSsoccer.com |accessdate=December 2, 2023}} The Apple broadcast included a one-hour pregame show, a post-match show, more than 20 cameras, and a drone for overhead shots.{{cite press release |date=December 6, 2023 |title=MLS Announces Broadcast Plans for the 2023 MLS Cup Presented by Audi |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/mls-announces-broadcast-plans-for-the-2023-mls-cup-presented-by-audi |publisher=Major League Soccer |accessdate=December 6, 2023}} The English commentary team for Apple's broadcast includes play-by-play commentator Jake Zivin, color analyst Taylor Twellman, and sideline reporter Katie Witham; the Spanish team comprises play-by-play commentator Sammy Sadovnik, color analyst Eduardo Biscayart, and sideline reporter Antonella Gonzalez.

In the United States, the match was also carried on terrestrial television by Fox Sports in English and Fox Deportes in Spanish. The English broadcast team for Fox comprises commentator John Strong, analyst Stu Holden, and reporter Jenny Taft.{{cite tweet |last=Goff |first=Steven |author-link=Steven Goff |user=SoccerInsider |number=1732464656877236285 |date=December 6, 2023 |title=Fox announcers (ENG) and Apple announcers (ENG) |link=yes |accessdate=December 9, 2023}} The Fox broadcast drew a 0.41 Nielsen rating with an average of 815,000 viewers, while Fox Deportes had 75,000 viewers; the combined viewership of 890,000 was less than half of the 2022 broadcast on Fox and Univision.{{cite news |last=Lewis |first=Jon |date=December 12, 2023 |title=Weekly sports ratings: NFL, NBA, Army-Navy, MLS Cup and more |url=https://www.sportsmediawatch.com/2023/12/weekly-sports-ratings-nfl-nba-in-season-army-navy-mls-cup-viewership/ |work=Sports Media Watch |accessdate=December 23, 2023}} In Canada, TSN carried the match in English and sister station Réseau des sports (RDS) broadcast it in French.{{cite press release |date=October 22, 2023 |title=MLS Announces Broadcast Schedule for Audi 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs Round One Best-of-3 Series |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/mls-announces-broadcast-schedule-for-audi-2023-mls-cup-playoffs-round-one-best-o |publisher=Major League Soccer |accessdate=December 2, 2023}}

In the Columbus area, the final was also broadcast on radio station WBNS with play-by-play commentary from Chris Doran. In the Los Angeles area, the match was carried on radio stations KSPN in English and 980 AM La Mera Mera in Spanish.{{cite press release |date=December 9, 2023 |title=Where To Watch: LAFC vs Columbus Crew 12/9/23 |url=https://www.lafc.com/news/where-to-watch-lafc-vs-columbus-crew-12-9-23 |publisher=Los Angeles FC |accessdate=January 6, 2024}}

File:Nordecke 2023 MLS Cup 12092023.jpg raised by Columbus Crew supporters in the Nordecke prior to kick-off]]

The MLS Cup final set a new attendance record for Lower.com Field with 20,802 spectators, including 1,700 LAFC supporters.{{cite news |last=Baxter |first=Kevin |date=December 9, 2023 |title=LAFC's bid for MLS Cup history undone by disastrous stretch in loss to Columbus |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/soccer/lafc/story/2023-12-09/lafc-loses-columbus-mls-cup-final |work=Los Angeles Times |accessdate=December 11, 2023}}{{cite news |last=Goff |first=Steven |date=December 9, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew lifts MLS Cup after tense, rain-drenched win over LAFC |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/12/09/mls-cup-columbus-crew-lafc/ |work=The Washington Post |accessdate=December 31, 2023}} The Crew had the majority of possession in the first half and limited chances for Los Angeles to counterattack. The continued pressure in LAFC's penalty area led to a handball by Diego Palacios that earned the Crew a penalty kick, which was converted in the 33rd minute by Cucho Hernández.{{cite news |last=Mac Kay |first=Brianna |date=December 9, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew top LAFC to win franchise's third MLS Cup |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2023/12/09/columbus-crew-top-lafc-to-win-franchises-third-mls-cup/71850633007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=December 9, 2023}} Heavy rain began to fall after the goal as the Crew continued to press forward. After Aidan Morris intercepted a pass by Ryan Hollingshead, the Crew made 11 passes upfield to reach Yaw Yeboah, who scored the second goal of the match,{{cite news |last=Booth |first=Chuck |date=December 9, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew's wing domination decides MLS Cup with Yaw Yeboah stepping into spotlight |url=https://www.cbssports.com/soccer/news/columbus-crews-wing-domination-decides-mls-cup-with-yaw-yeboah-stepping-into-spotlight/ |work=CBS Sports |accessdate=December 31, 2023}} with Matthew Doyle of MLSsoccer.com describing it as "the most beautiful goal in MLS Cup history."{{Cite web |last=Doyle |first=Matthew |date=December 11, 2023 |title=What the 2023 MLS season meant for Columbus Crew |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/what-the-2023-mls-season-meant-for-columbus-crew |access-date=2024-08-23 |website=mlssoccer |language=en}}

The Crew led 2–0 at half-time, having avoided a potential own goal in stoppage time. LAFC responded by sending more players upfield and leaving themselves vulnerable to counterattacks; an attempt by Yeboah was saved off the goal line by Palacios early in the half. Dénis Bouanga scored in the 74th minute from a rebound after his first shot was saved by goalkeeper Patrick Schulte with his face. Schulte was treated on-field after the play but was able to continue. The Crew were able to prevent an equalizer from LAFC and won 2–1 to clinch their third MLS Cup title.{{cite news |last=Merz |first=Craig |date=December 10, 2023 |title=Crew race to 2-goal lead in 1st half, hold on to beat LAFC 2-1 for 3rd MLS Cup |url=https://whyy.org/articles/mls-cup-columbus-crew-defeats-lafc-for-3rd-title/ |publisher=WHYY |agency=Associated Press |accessdate=December 31, 2023}}

{{Football box

|date = {{Start date|2023|12|09}}

|time = 4:00{{nbsp}}p.m. EST

|team1 = Columbus Crew

|score = 2–1

|report = https://www.mlssoccer.com/competitions/mls-cup-playoffs/2023/matches/clbvslafc-12-09-2023/

|team2 = Los Angeles FC

|goals1 =

• Hernández {{goal|33|pen.}}
• Yeboah {{goal|37}}

|goals2 =

• Bouanga {{goal|74}}

|stadium = Lower.com Field

|location = Columbus, Ohio

|attendance = 20,802

|referee = Armando Villarreal

}}

|valign="top"|

|valign="top" width="50%"|

|}

Columbus are the third team to win at least three MLS Cup titles, after D.C. United and the LA Galaxy. Cucho Hernández was named the MLS Cup MVP for his performance, a first for a Colombian player.{{cite press release |date=December 9, 2023 |title=Columbus Crew Win 2023 MLS Cup presented by Audi, Defeating LAFC, 2-1 |url=https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/columbus-crew-win-2023-mls-cup-presented-by-audi-defeating-lafc-2-1 |publisher=Major League Soccer |accessdate=December 11, 2023}} Wilfried Nancy became the first Black coach to win the MLS Cup and commented that he was "proud" but "not happy at the same time" due to the lack of fellow Black coaches in the league.{{cite news |date=December 9, 2023 |title=Nancy 'proud but not happy' to be first Black coach to win MLS Cup |url=https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20231210-nancy-proud-but-hot-happy-to-be-first-black-coach-to-win-mls-cup |work=France 24 |agency=Agence France-Presse |accessdate=December 11, 2023}} Patrick Schulte and Sean Zawadzki became the first players to play in both an MLS Cup and MLS Next Pro Cup final; 22-year-old Schulte was also the youngest goalkeeper to win a title.

Bouanga's goal in the second half was his 38th of the season, tying an MLS record set by teammate Carlos Vela for most goals in a single year across all competitions. LAFC ended a 353-minute shutout streak by conceding the penalty kick to Columbus.

On December 12, the Crew held a victory parade on Nationwide Boulevard and a rally at a plaza outside Lower.com Field to celebrate their MLS Cup title. The parade featured an oversized replica of the Philip F. Anschutz Trophy that was too large to fit under a bridge near the stadium.{{cite news |last=Geniusz |first=Kate |date=December 12, 2023 |title=Fans attend parade in celebration of Columbus Crew's third MLS Cup championship |url=https://news.wosu.org/sports/2023-12-12/fans-attend-parade-in-celebration-of-columbus-crews-third-mls-cup-championship |publisher=WOSU |accessdate=December 31, 2023}} The Crew visited the White House and met with President Joe Biden and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff on September 27, 2024, to celebrate their championship.{{cite news |last=Maurer |first=Pablo |date=September 27, 2024 |title=Inside Columbus Crew's White House visit: 'This is about so much more than a picture' |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5799764/2024/09/27/columbus-crew-white-house-biden-nancy/ |work=The Athletic |url-access=subscription |accessdate=September 29, 2024}} Columbus had already qualified for the 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup and their original berth was transferred to the New England Revolution, who finished sixth in the regular season standings.{{cite news |last=Kurie |first=Brendan |date=December 10, 2023 |title=New England Revolution qualify for 2024 CONCACAF Champions Cup |url=https://www.bostonglobe.com/2023/12/09/sports/new-england-revolution-qualify-2024-concacaf-champions-cup/ |work=The Boston Globe |url-access=subscription |accessdate=January 31, 2025}}

The two teams met again in the 2024 Leagues Cup final, which Columbus hosted and won 3–1.{{cite news |last=Mac Kay |first=Brianna |date=August 26, 2024 |title=Columbus Crew win Leagues Cup title, Cucho Hernandez 'showed who he is': 2 takeaways |url=https://www.dispatch.com/story/sports/mls/columbus-crew/2024/08/26/columbus-crew-defeat-lafc-for-leagues-cup-title-cucho-scores-two-takeaways/74922660007/ |work=The Columbus Dispatch |accessdate=September 25, 2024}}

{{reflist}}

{{MLS Cup}}

{{2023 in American men's soccer}}

{{2023 in Canadian soccer}}

{{Columbus Crew matches}}

{{Los Angeles FC matches}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mls Cup 2023}}

2023

Category:2023 Major League Soccer season

Category:Columbus Crew matches

Category:Los Angeles FC matches

Category:Sports competitions in Columbus, Ohio

Category:December 2023 sports events in the United States

Category:Soccer competitions in Ohio