Following a successful regular season in which Head Coach Matt Taylor guided Ventura County FC (VCFC) to a third-place finish in the Western Conference, VCFC will host Minnesota United FC 2 at Dignity Health Sports Park on Friday, October 16 at 7 p.m. PT in the opening round of the MLS NEXT Pro Playoffs. The matchup comes after MLS NEXT Pro's "Pick Your Opponent" format saw Ventura County select Minnesota as their first-round postseason opponent.
VCFC earned its playoff berth behind one of the conference's most balanced performances, finishing with the most goals scored in the Western Conference while conceding the fourth-fewest goals. The club also posted the second-best goal differential in the conference, pairing a high-powered attack with a disciplined defensive unit. Led by standout campaigns from Julian Placias (12 goals, 8 assists), Eric Preston (9 goals), and goalkeeper Sebastian Conlon, VCFC paired one of the Western Conference's most potent attacks with a strong defensive foundation throughout the season. The club was particularly strong during the heart of the campaign, compiling a 9-2-3 record from June through September. With momentum, attacking firepower, and a strong defensive record, VCFC enters the postseason looking to make a deep playoff run.
Adding to the festive atmosphere surrounding the match, the sold-out Treats-n-Suites event will take place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The popular community event transforms the stadium's luxury suites into a safe trick-or-treating experience for local children and includes a costume parade, themed hayrides, carnival games hosted by the City of Carson, and interactive wildlife exhibits.
