LAFC Opens 2025 Season with A One-Goal Victory

PHOTO: LAFC Communications

BMO Stadium was the venue chosen to open the 30th Major League Soccer season. Los Angeles Football Club and Minesota United, two of the newest members of the league, had a competitive game that ended with a solitary goal and the victory for Steve Cherundolo´s roster.

With its traditional 4-3-3 formation, the Blacl and Gold began its eight season wtih Hugo Lloris in goal; Aaron Long and Marlon in defense; Rayan Hollingshead and Sergi Palencia on the wings; a renewed midfield with Igor Jesus, Mark Delgado and Timothy Tilman; and a young attack with 18-year-old Venezuelan David Martinez, Denis Bouanga and Jeremy Ebobisse.

With five in the back and three in the midfield, which in multiple facets of the game ended with practically eight men defending against their goal, Minesota United seem to have a conserve approach against its rivals; however, the dynamic Tanitoluwa Oluwaseyi and the speed of Kelvin Yeboah was a threat for the Black and Gold defense. It was Yeboah who placed the ball in the post, which was the clearest chance of the first half.

The second half was imprecise and compitted; but neither Hugo Lloris or Dayne St Clair saw their nets in real danger. It was until the 78th minute that thrills were brought to the Black and Gold faithful who attended BMO Stadium in an unusual afternoon game. Mark Delgado took the ball on the left side, place it in the area where sub Nathan Ordaz took the ball backwards. After a great take, the Salvadorian-American placed the ball in the left side of the area. Jeremy Ebobbise stroke the ball and placed it on the left corner of the goal. Thus, LAFC scored their first goal of the season and their eight consecutive victory in Opening Day.

LAFC will have two consecutive home games the following week against Colorado Rapids in Wednesday in a match that corresponds to CONCACAF Cup; and versus New York City on Saturday. Both matches will be in LAFC´s usual 7;30 schedule.