2022 MLS Season Review: Los Angeles FC's Double Triumph
The 2022 Major League Soccer (MLS) season was a landmark year defined by the dominance of Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and a high-scoring regular season that captivated fans across North America. Spanning from February 26 to November 5, the season saw a blend of tactical brilliance and individual excellence, culminating in a historic double for the Los Angeles-based club.
The regular season served as a grueling marathon where teams fought for positioning in the playoffs and qualification for the CONCACAF Champions League (the premier club competition for North American, Central American, and Caribbean teams). While the Eastern and Western Conferences provided fierce competition, LAFC emerged as the gold standard of the year.
Key Facts
- Champions: Los Angeles FC won both the MLS Cup and the Supporters' Shield.
- Top Scorer: Hany Mukhtar of Nashville SC led the league with 23 goals.
- Attendance: The league drew a total of 10,011,578 spectators.
- High Scoring: A total of 1,409 goals were scored, averaging 2.96 per match.
- MVP: Hany Mukhtar was named the league's Most Valuable Player.
The Road to Glory: LAFC's Dominance
Los Angeles FC enjoyed a stellar campaign, finishing first in the Western Conference with 67 points. Their consistency earned them the Supporters' Shield, awarded to the team with the best overall regular-season record. LAFC's success was built on a potent offense and a disciplined defense, allowing them to secure a spot in the 2023 Campeones Cup and the CONCACAF Champions League.
The postseason saw LAFC maintain their momentum, eventually capturing their second title in the MLS Cup final on November 5, cementing their status as the powerhouse of the 2022 season.
Conference Breakdowns and Standings
In the Eastern Conference, the Philadelphia Union stood out as the most consistent side during the regular season, finishing top of the table with 67 points and a massive +46 goal difference. However, the playoffs proved volatile, with teams like FC Cincinnati and New York City FC making deep runs before the final stages.
The Western Conference was led by LAFC, followed closely by Austin FC and FC Dallas. The battle for the top spots in the West was characterized by high-scoring affairs and a tight race for playoff qualification.
Season Summary Table
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| MLS Cup Winner | Los Angeles FC |
| Supporters' Shield Winner | Los Angeles FC |
| Eastern Conference Leader | Philadelphia Union |
| Golden Boot Winner | Hany Mukhtar (23 goals) |
| Total Goals Scored | 1,409 |
| Total Attendance | 10,011,578 |
Individual Brilliance and Awards
While LAFC took the team honors, the individual awards highlighted the diverse talent across the league. Hany Mukhtar of Nashville SC was the standout performer, securing the MVP award and the top goal-scoring spot. His ability to influence games was unmatched, making him the focal point of the Nashville attack.
Other notable honors included Jesús Ferreira (FC Dallas) as Young Player of the Year and Gonzalo Higuaín (Inter Miami CF) as the Comeback Player of the Year. In goal, Andre Blake of the Philadelphia Union continued his legacy of excellence, winning his third Goalkeeper of the Year award.
The MLS Best XI
The league's best players were recognized in the Best XI, featuring a mix of defensive stalwarts and attacking maestros:
- Goalkeeper: Andre Blake (Philadelphia)
- Defenders: Jakob Glesnes (Philadelphia), etc.
- Midfielders: Luciano Acosta (Cincinnati), Sebastián Driussi (Austin), Dániel Gazdag (Philadelphia), Hany Mukhtar (Nashville)
- Forwards: Jesús Ferreira (Dallas), Brandon Vázquez (Cincinnati), Carlos Vela (LAFC)
Frequently Asked Questions
Who won the 2022 MLS Cup?
Los Angeles FC won the 2022 MLS Cup, marking their second title.
Who was the top goal scorer of the 2022 season?
Hany Mukhtar of Nashville SC was the top scorer with 23 goals.
Which team won the 2022 Supporters' Shield?
Los Angeles FC won the Supporters' Shield for having the best regular-season record.
How many goals were scored in total during the 2022 regular season?
A total of 1,409 goals were scored, which averages to approximately 2.96 goals per match.
Who was named the 2022 MLS MVP?
Hany Mukhtar of Nashville SC was named the Most Valuable Player.