# LA Galaxy MLS playoff race

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/la-galaxy-mls-playoff-race
> Updated: 2026-07-31T08:32:35.000Z. Sources: 19. Developments: 2.

In mid‑July, the LA Galaxy hosted crosstown rivals LAFC in the El Tráfico derby, a sell‑out match that saw both Western Conference teams within four points of each other. The Galaxy entered the game looking to solidify their playoff positioning, while LAFC aimed to maintain its lead.

Two weeks later, the Galaxy traveled to Carson to face FC Dallas. After a winless stretch of four games, the Galaxy had slipped to 11th place, just two points shy of a playoff spot, while Dallas sat fifth and five points ahead of LA. Injuries continued to trouble the Galaxy’s attacking options, making the matchup a pivotal effort to stay in contention.

The two snapshots trace the Galaxy’s shift from a closely contested rivalry game to a critical fight for points as the regular season draws toward its climax.

## Timeline

### 2026-07-31: LA Galaxy host FC Dallas in Western Conference showdown

LA Galaxy host FC Dallas in Carson as both sides chase playoff spots; Galaxy are injury‑hit and winless in four, Dallas sit five points ahead but lack recent form.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/la-galaxy-host-fc-dallas-in-western-conference-showdown

### 2026-07-16: LA Galaxy and LAFC clash in El Tráfico rivalry match in Los Angeles

LA Galaxy host LAFC in the sell‑out “El Tráfico” MLS derby, with both teams fighting for Western Conference playoff spots; Heung‑Min Son expected to start for LAFC, broadcast on FOX and streaming services.

15 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/la-galaxy-and-lafc-clash-in-soldout-el-trfico-mls-rivalry

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Cite as: LA Galaxy MLS playoff race. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/la-galaxy-mls-playoff-race