The Leagues Cup 2025 third-place playoff is set to deliver an intense clash between LA Galaxy and Orlando City as both teams fight to finish their tournament on a high. The match is scheduled for Sunday, August 31, 2025, at 5:00 PM ET, and will be one of the most watched fixtures of the competition.

Match Preview

Both LA Galaxy and Orlando City came heartbreakingly close to reaching the final but fell short in their semi-final matches. That makes this game more than just a consolation — it’s a chance to prove resilience and end the tournament with silverware.

  • Teams: LA Galaxy vs Orlando City

  • Stage: Third-place playoff

  • Tournament: Leagues Cup 2025

  • Kickoff: 5:00 PM ET, Sunday, August 31, 2025

LA Galaxy are known for their attacking flair, with midfielders capable of controlling the tempo and forwards who can exploit space quickly. They will likely try to dominate early possession and press Orlando high up the pitch.

Orlando City, however, thrive on structured defending and rapid counter-attacks. Their wide players could stretch the Galaxy backline and create scoring opportunities, especially in transition.

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Predicted Lineups

While final lineups will be confirmed closer to kickoff, here’s how both sides may line up:

LA Galaxy (4-3-3): [Goalkeeper], [Defenders], [Midfielders], [Forwards]
Orlando City (4-2-3-1): [Goalkeeper], [Defenders], [Midfielders], [Forwards]

Match Prediction

Expect a tightly contested game with plenty of chances at both ends. LA Galaxy’s attacking strength gives them a slight edge, and they may clinch the win with a 2-1 scoreline. However, if Orlando execute their counter-attacking plan effectively, this could easily head to extra time or penalties.

Where to Watch

Fans can catch the Leagues Cup 2025 – LA Galaxy vs Orlando City third-place playoff live on:

  • Apple TV – MLS Season Pass

  • FuboTV

  • Fox Sports (English coverage)

  • TUDN / Univision (Spanish coverage)

This third-place playoff is not just about pride — it’s about momentum heading into the MLS season and cementing bragging rights in the Leagues Cup 2025.

Recent Form (Last 5 Leagues Cup Matches)

LA Galaxy

  • vs Santos Laguna – 4-0 win (Aug 8) 

  • vs Pachuca – 2-1 win (Aug 20) 

  • vs Seattle Sounders (Semi) – 0-2 loss (Aug 27) 

  • Group stage fixtures – strong performances, including a 5-2 win over Tijuana 

  • Overall 2025 Leagues Cup record: Unbeaten before semis, solid goal differential 

Summary:
Galaxy entered the tournament with strong attacking momentum, dominating early rounds. Their only slip-up came against Seattle in the semifinals, but their tournament form has been encouraging.

Orlando City

  • vs Tigres / other Liga MX sides – Notable PERF in group stage (scorelines not specified) 

  • vs Toluca (QF) – Advanced on penalties after draw (Aug 20) 

  • vs Inter Miami (Semi) – 1-3 loss; Messi scored twice in the comeback (Aug 27) 

  • Group stage – Strong offense, resilience; detailed stats limited 

Summary:
Orlando City's journey shows grit—tight knockout wins and a high-profile semifinal loss to Messi’s Miami. Their defensive discipline and resolve in penalties speak volumes.

Match Prediction

Here’s a refined prediction based on current form:

  • Predicted Score: LA Galaxy 2 – Orlando City 1

  • Why: Galaxy’s offensive form and confidence give them an edge, but Orlando’s structured defense could keep it tight. Expect a competitive battle with Galaxy just edging it late.

Match Details at a Glance

Match Venue Kickoff Watch Live On
LA Galaxy vs Orlando City Carson, California 5:00 PM ET, Aug 31 Apple TV (MLS Season Pass), Fox Sports, Univision/TUDN