MLS Playoffs resume this weekend. Here’s who we’re picking in the Western Conference

• Soccer

Here’s a look at the matchups in the West, what to look out for and, our prediction of the team moving on to the conference final.

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Just four teams remain looking to book their trip to the MLS Cup finale on Dec. 6. The game, which will take place at the site of the higher seed still finds a pair of No. 1 seeds in Philadelphia in the East and expansion side San Diego in the West vying for a chance to be the last one standing.

Here’s a look at the matchups in the West, with what to look out for and, our prediction of who will be moving on to the conference final.

Saturday, Nov. 22, 9:30 p.m., Apple TV, MLS Season Pass

This is the matchup everyone wants to see, whether you have a vested interest in the East or the West. LAFC has been one of MLS’s most dynamic teams, with a high-powered offense that was led by French-Gabonese dual international Denis Bouanga. But now it’s even more electric with the addition of Son Heung-Min during the summer transfer window. The team has been on a tear and doesn’t look like there are plans of slowing down anytime soon.

On the other side, Vancouver has been led by the wisdom and still unreal finishing prowess German legend Thomas Müller, all wrapped behind a defense that allowed just one goal in regulation in a 2-0 sweep of FC Dallas while scoring four across both contests. Vancouver has been on a tear as well, winners of their last five straight in all competitions, including capturing the Canadian Championship crown back on Oct. 1. Vancouver also unbeaten in its last 14 competitions, and haven’t been on the wrong side of a final score since August.

Prediction: This game could go to extras given the balance of power, and if there was going to be a game that ends in a shootout this is the one. With that said, we’re giving Vancouver the slight edge to move onto the conference final following a penalty kick shootout.

Monday, Nov. 24, 10 p.m., Apple TV, MLS Season Pass

It’s been a strong run for Minnesota, who impressed in getting past Seattle, mainly behind the steady play of Dayne St. Clair, the reigning MLS Goalkeeper of the Year. Through two matches, they were able to keep the Sounders at bay behind a strong defensive front and St. Clair doing St. Clair things.

But San Diego, who’s record-breaking season is one that looks to put them in the running for one of the best expansion starts from a club — ever — if they can make it to the conference final is spearheaded by the play of forward Anders Dreyer, who leads SDFC with 19 goals and 19 assists. Additionally, its likely the team will welcoming the return of high-powered Mexican international Hirving “Chucky Lozano, who has been a one-two punch with Dreyer this season.

Prediction: Having San Diego, an expansion club in the Western Conference final would be a dream scenario for not just SDFC, but the league as a whole. Minnesota is going to be pesky, but doubtful a problem for San Diego at home, who move onto the final following a 2-0 final.

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