3 game-changing players to watch in the MLS Cup Playoffs

3 game-changing players to watch in the 2022 MLS Cup Playoffs

HARRISON, NJ - SEPTEMBER 03: Andre Blake #18 of Philadelphia Union clears the ball in the second half of the Major League Soccer match against New York Red Bulls at Red Bull Arena on September 3, 2022 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images) /

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KANSAS CITY, KS – JULY 23: Christian Arango #9 of LAFC with the ball during a game between Los Angeles FC and Sporting Kansas CityKansas at Children’s Mercy Park on July 23, 2022 in Kansas City, United States. (Photo by Bill Barrett/ISI Photos/Getty Images) /

2. Cristian Arango (Los Angeles FC)

Los Angeles FC are loaded with big-name players, including Mexico’s Carlos Vela, Wales international Gareth Bale and former Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini. Nonetheless, it is striker Cristian Arango who has been the standout player for the L.A. club and leading the squad with 16 goals.

Arango, who signed with LAFC last year, was born in Colombia and has become one of the hottest players in MLS this season. A bench player, the 27-year-old forward has surprised many with his ability to find the back of the net over the course of the regular season.

It’s true that many teams that excelled during the regular season, especially those who capture the Supporters’ Shield, fail to go all the way. That’s something LAFC will need to get over. The key to that could be Arango’s form and whether he can remain consistent deep into the fall.

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