The first two games of the Knockout Round in the Audi 2016 MLS Cup Playoffs have come and gone: Toronto FC and the LA Galaxy are through to the Conference Semifinals.
They will face off against New York City FC and the Colorado Rapids, respectively – but before looking ahead, let's take a step back and process Wednesday night's matches.
TFC: Jozy gets creative
Jozy Altidore is not always known for his ability to create chances but against the Philadelphia Union, the US national team forward showed he's not one-dimensional. Altidore created four chances on the night, two more than he created in any single game this season.
PHI: Union exposed
The Philadelphia Union were one of the worst teams in MLS when it comes to defending set pieces, conceding 14 goals – the third most in MLS. That weakness came back to bite them as Jonathan Osorio's game-winning goal came off a set piece in the 48th minute.
LA: Gordo's career game
Alan Gordon has had a long and storied MLS career, playing in a total of 260 games between the regular season and playoffs. Against Real Salt Lake, the 35-year-old did something he had done only once before: In his first playoff start Gordon had a goal and two assists.
Gordon has duplicated that feat only once prior, on Sept. 29, 2012 vs. FC Dallas. Galaxy fans will be holding their breath after Gordon left the game with an injury early in the second half.
LA: Midfield engines
With Steven Gerrard dealing with an injury and Jeff Larentowicz taking a seat on the bench, the Galaxy's two starting center midfield spots were occupied by Sebastian Lletget and Baggio Husidic. The duo proved exceptional in possession, each completing more than 93 percent of his passes, despite combining for more than 140 attempts. Those percentages would have ranked in this season's top 20 of any single-game performance with a similar amount of passes.
