The 2012 MLS Cup playoffs heat up as the defending MLS Cup champion Los Angeles Galaxy host the visiting Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Western Conference knockout round Thursday at 10:30 p.m. ET.

The winner of the match will advance in the MLS Cup playoffs and face the San Jose Earthquakes in the two-game Western Conference Semifinal.

The Galaxy have had great success when facing the Whitecaps, including a 2-0-1 record against Vancouver this season. Los Angeles has not lost to Vancouver since the Whitecaps joined the MLS last season.

The Galaxy have an offense that features Landon Donovan, Robbie and Keane and a defense anchored by Omar Gonzalez.

They added Christian Wilhelmsson late in the season to give them another top notch, if older player, and have some of the best depth and talent in the league.

The Galaxy were forced to play in the knockout round after they finished fourth in the Western Conference during the regular season. The top three seeds automatically advanced to the semifinal round. Los Angeles has advanced to the Western Conference Championship in each of the previous three seasons.

Watch LA Galaxy vs. Vancouver Whitecaps live stream, click here.

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