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LAFC have clinched the 2022 Supporters’ Shield.
The Black & Gold claimed the title as the 2022 regular-season champions after the 2-1 triumph over the Portland Timbers on Sunday at Providence Park. Despite the late-season pressure by the Philadelphia Union, LAFC leads with 67 points in 33 to secure the honor.
This stands as their second Supporters’ Shield victory after their 2019 win, setting a then-record for single-season points with 72. The New England Revolution have since trumped LAFC’s numbers recording 73 points in 2021.
The Western Conference giants’ Shield victory comes with a 2023 Concacaf Champions League slot, becoming the latest MLS team to join the upcoming tournament. LAFC last featured in the international competition in 2020, reaching the final before losing to Liga MX side Tigres UANL.
The Supporters’ Shield stands as the first piece of silverware under first-year head coach Steve Cherundolo. He took over for now-Toronto FC manager and sporting director Bob Bradley ahead of the 2022 campaign, undergoing the pressure of a previous legacy.
But Cherundolo managed well, leading the Black & Gold to a 21W-8L-4D record. The team has also clinched the Number 1 seed for the MLS Cup playoffs, ensuring home-field advantage throughout the postseason and final on November 5, should they make it.