LAFC Set to Face Club América in Preseason Friendly with Fire Relief Focus

LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) will host Liga MX‘s Club América in a preseason friendly on February 11 at 7:30 p.m. PT at BMO Stadium. The match serves as an important preparation step for LAFC as they gear up for their 2025 season opener against the Colorado Rapids in Concacaf Champions Cup action on February 18.

This highly anticipated friendly will see two of North America’s top soccer teams compete on a prominent stage. Besides the competitive nature of the match, a portion of the proceeds will be dedicated to ongoing wildfire recovery and relief efforts in the Los Angeles area, demonstrating LAFC’s commitment to supporting their community.

“It’s gonna be exciting,” said LAFC midfielder Mark Delgado. “We’re definitely looking forward to it. A lot of our fans and a lot of their fans are gonna be there.” The match is expected to draw a lively crowd, reflecting the strong connection between the two clubs and their respective fanbases.

LAFC is coming off a successful 2024 season, finishing atop the Western Conference and claiming their first U.S. Open Cup trophy. The club aims to build on this momentum as they begin their preparations for the upcoming season under the guidance of head coach Steve Cherundolo.

“I feel very good about where we are at right now,” Cherundolo stated, emphasizing the team’s readiness for the challenge ahead.

On the other hand, Club América, managed by André Jardine, has established itself as a dominant force in Mexican football, winning multiple Liga MX titles. The team most recently continued its successful run by clinching the 2024 Apertura title in December and currently leads the Clausura with five wins and a draw this season.

Club América’s roster features former MLS players such as Jonathan dos Santos and Brian Rodríguez, who returns to face his former team. Rodríguez had a standout performance in a recent match, scoring twice in a 4-0 victory over FC Juarez.

This matchup will be the third encounter between the two clubs, with LAFC winning their last competitive meeting in the 2020 Concacaf Champions League semifinals. A friendly match in 2022 ended in a draw, showcasing the competitive spirit shared between these teams.

“It will be a very tough game for us,” said midfielder Timmy Tillman. “Hopefully, we can get the result, but it’s more important to focus on our performance.” With high stakes and significant community support at the forefront, both LAFC and Club América are poised to bring their best efforts to the field.

In preparation for the match, fans are encouraged to arrive early as BMO Stadium gates will open at 6 p.m. PT, with plans in place to enhance the matchday experience and prioritize the well-being of supporters through a clear bag policy at the stadium.

The game will be broadcast live on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV and Televisa in Mexico, ensuring fans near and far can catch the action. Both clubs are eager to demonstrate their skills in what promises to be an exciting clash.