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MLS News: Philadelphia to face LAFC in the MLS Cup after a stunning second-half rally against New York

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The best in the East and West will meet in the MLS Cup after Philadelphia Union launched a stunning 11-minute second-half rally to defeat defending champions New York City 3-1 on Sunday.

The Union will play the Fan Shield winner LAFC in the season decider on Nov. 5 at the Bank of California Stadium, with Steve Cerundolo’s team handily beating Austin 3-0 earlier Sunday.

Philadelphia lost to New York in last year’s Conference Finals, but a series of goals from Julian Carranza, Daniel Gazdag and substitute Corey Burke sent them to their first-ever MLS Cup.

New York silenced the Subaru Park fans when they took the lead in the 57th minute due to a low kick from Maxi Morales after a soft pass from Santiago Rodriguez.

MLS Goaltender of the Year Andre Blake prevented a second goal in New York when he made a one-handed save to deflect a header from Alexander Cullens.

Union took advantage of Blake’s brilliant performance almost immediately, with Carranza equalizing in the 65th minute after a quick free-kick from Jakob Glesnes.

Two minutes later, Jack McGlynn’s brilliant crossfield was masterfully directed down by Carranza, separating the two defenders and setting up Gazdag to shoot at a 2-1 goal.

Burke, who was taken out in the 62nd minute, rushed forward with speed and power to deliver a 3-1 left foot kick in the 76th minute.

LAFC’s victory over Austin was less complicated, with Christian Arango putting them ahead in the 29th minute, before a second-half own goal by Maximiliano Urruti and a Kwadvo Opoku strike ended their conference final.

Philadelphia and LAFC were the top seed in the Eastern and Western Conferences, respectively, finishing the regular season tied in points.

The LAFC won the Fan Shield due to more wins in the regular season. Both clubs will be aiming for their first ever MLS Cup titles.

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