LAFC Faces Club América in Preseason Showdown Tuesday Night

LOS ANGELES, California — LAFC wraps up its preseason preparations for the 2025 MLS season with a friendly match against Liga MX champions Club América on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. PT at BMO Stadium.

LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo expressed excitement about the matchup, stating, “It’s a great opportunity for us to have Club América here in Los Angeles. They are a great team, well-coached and organized, with talent all around. It will be a significant challenge for our players, and I can’t think of a better way to finish our preparation than against a team like this. Additionally, it allows us to gear up for our Concacaf Champions League matches.”

As the team prepares for the Liga MX powerhouse, LAFC has made notable roster changes. In November 2024, they declined the contract option for veteran forward Carlos Vela, leading to speculation about his future after a standout career with the club. Vela’s home was affected by the recent Palisades fires in January, adding a personal challenge to his offseason.

“I spoke with him the week before it happened, and honestly, it was a tremendous tragedy. It’s very touching and painful to see a teammate go through that, and now he has to overcome this situation. It’s complicated,” said defender Sergi Palencia. “He has a strong mentality, and I am sure he will get through this alongside his family.”

LAFC also faces the departure of midfielder Eduard Atuesta, who is heading to Orlando City. Atuesta previously played for LAFC from 2019 to 2021 before a stint with Brazil’s Palmeiras.

Cherundolo aims to utilize younger players throughout this match and the upcoming season. “I believe we are a great place for players to develop and compete at the highest level, and players that are still developing can learn here, which will grow their value,” he said. “We plan to push our young players, giving them significant minutes. We have more planned for Wednesday to make sure all our players in the roster get around 90 minutes over the next few days.”