LAFC secured a crucial spot in the FIFA Club World Cup with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Club América in extra time on Saturday night at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. Denis Bouanga scored the winning goal in the 115th minute, securing LAFC’s first appearance in the tournament.
Igor Jesus tied the game for LAFC in the 89th minute, marking his first goal with the club. The victory marked a remarkable turnaround, as LAFC was once down by one goal and faced elimination.
The win is a significant boost for Major League Soccer, guaranteeing at least $9.55 million in prize money for participating in the tournament. With this win, LAFC joins English club Chelsea, Brazil’s Flamengo, and Tunisia’s ES Tunis in group play.
LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo praised his team’s performance, saying it was their best of the season. The victory puts LAFC on a different level and helps put the league on the map at the Club World Cup.
The match was intense, with both teams creating scoring chances throughout the game. However, it was Bouanga’s goal that proved to be the difference-maker.
LAFC will now join Inter Miami, Seattle Sounders, Pachuca, and Monterrey in group play across the U.S. in two weeks’ time.
Source: https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45415386/lafc-secures-last-club-world-cup-berth-extra-win-club-america