LAFC2 entered 2026 looking for a fresh start under new head coach Fabian Sandoval after finishing 13th in the Western Conference and missing the playoffs in 2025.
Under Sandoval, LAFC2 strung together a nine-match home unbeaten streak during the summer that helped them finish in sixth place in the Western Conference with 45 points and earn their first postseason appearance since 2024.
Now they'll face off against an experienced Houston Dynamo 2 side in hopes of claiming their first-ever MLS NEXT Pro playoff win.
Season series
LAFC2 have faced Houston Dynamo 2 six times since 2023, earning only one regulation win.
That lone LAFC2 victory came in their only meeting of 2026, when they defeated Dynamo 2 by 3-1 at home in June.
Player spotlight
Tommy Mihalić led the way offensively for LAFC2 this season, scoring nine goals and adding three assists.
With the forward now signed to a first-team contract, LAFC2 could turn to young attackers Marius Aiyenero and Ernesto Rodriguez to pick up the slack if Mihalić is unavailable during the MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs.
In midfield, Liam Lambert has emerged as a key player over the last few months, while Sebastian Nava and DeCarlo Guerra bring some added physicality to the middle of the park.
Road from here
LAFC2 will travel to Shell Energy Stadium to face Houston Dynamo 2 on Sunday, October 18, at 7 PM ET.
After defeating Dynamo 2 in their lone meeting of 2026, LAFC2 will look to knock off the fourth seed to keep their MLS NEXT Pro Cup hopes alive.
