Los Angeles FC has secured its spot in the FIFA Club World Cup after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Mexican club America, which extended into extra time. Denis Bouanga was the decisive player, scoring in front of the home fans to send LAFC through.
The match was forced into extra time when Igor Jesus`s header late in regulation cancelled out a penalty scored by former LAFC player Brian Rodriguez. Bouanga`s winning goal propelled the Black and Gold to victory, making them one of the MLS representatives, alongside Seattle Sounders and Inter Miami, in the expanded Club World Cup. This qualification also brings LAFC close to $10 million in prize money, with potential to earn more based on their tournament performance.
In the upcoming tournament, LAFC is drawn into Group D, where they will face formidable opponents including Chelsea, Flamengo, and Esperance Sportive de Tunis.
The initial half saw a cautious approach from both sides, leading to a largely midfield battle, particularly notable given the significant stakes of Club World Cup qualification and the pro-Club America presence in the Los Angeles crowd. Despite adjustments in the second half, a mistake by Marco Delgado seemed poised to hand America the advantage.
Delgado conceded a penalty by fouling America`s captain, Erick Sanchez, just inside the box, which Club America successfully converted. In response, the Black and Gold brought on more attacking players to increase pressure. This offensive push paid off in the 89th minute when Denis Bouanga assisted Igor Jesus from a corner kick, levelling the score and sending the game to extra time.
Maintaining the attacking intensity that brought the equalizer, LAFC dominated chances in extra time. They significantly outshot Club America 19 to nine, with eight shots on target, and were the only team to score from open play during the match.
LAFC is participating in the tournament as a replacement for Club Leon, who were disqualified due to multi-club ownership rules. With the Club World Cup commencing on June 14 and LAFC`s first match against Chelsea scheduled for June 16, the preparation time is minimal. A special transfer window is open from June 1 to June 10 to allow participating teams to reinforce their squads, although MLS roster regulations may restrict LAFC`s ability to add players as extensively as other international clubs.
However, these logistical challenges take a backseat for now as this achievement represents a landmark moment for a club established as recently as 2018. It offers LAFC a valuable opportunity to compete against historic clubs like Chelsea and showcase their abilities on the global stage alongside 32 other teams this summer.
Adrian Whitmore