LAFC Triumphs in Preseason Against Club América Ahead of 2025 Debut

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) concluded their preseason schedule with a notable victory against Liga MX powerhouse Club América, winning 2-1 Tuesday night at BMO Stadium. The match served as the final tune-up for LAFC before they kick off the 2025 season.

Coach Steve Cherundolo’s squad showcased resilience and skill, with Denis Bouanga and Nathan Ordaz scoring the goals that secured the win. Bouanga took advantage of a defensive error shortly after halftime, while Ordaz sealed the victory following a well-executed attack with Bouanga.

“Club América has a fantastic team who really tested our guys,” Cherundolo said. “They pushed them to their limits. This game was intense, and I’m very happy it was scheduled.”

The hosts remained under pressure from the three-time defending Liga MX champions throughout the match but held strong into halftime at a scoreless draw. Bouanga capitalized on a weak pass by Sebastián Cáceres just after the break, giving LAFC a crucial lead that goalkeeper Hugo Lloris helped maintain.

Ordaz, who replaced Young Venezuelan talent David Martínez, found the net after a swift counter-attack that started with Bouanga. “This game was intense,” Ordaz noted. “It wasn’t just a friendly; it was really competitive, and I think we’re ready for next week.”

Club América responded with a goal of their own when Richard Sánchez finished a play set up by LAFC’s Brazilian newcomer Igor Jesus. “I’m happy to see economic growth in his game, but we have work to do in keeping possession under pressure,” Cherundolo said about Jesus.

LAFC’s starting line-up featured a 4-3-3 formation that has consistently been employed during the preseason. The defensive line included Ryan Hollingshead, Aaron Long, Eddie Segura, and Sergi Palencia, while the midfield had Timothy Tillman paired with LAFC’s newest signings, Mark Delgado and Igor Jesus.

With the victory, LAFC are now poised to face the Colorado Rapids in their first competitive match during the CONCACAF Champions Cup on February 18. “We are absolutely focused on the performance, but we also want to continue building a stronger community,” Cherundolo emphasized.

Dating back to their previous encounters, LAFC has won three out of the last four matches played against Club América, including a memorable victory in the Concachampions semifinals in 2020. The rivalry appears set to intensify as both clubs set their sights on their upcoming campaigns.

As LAFC aims for their first MLS championship following their successful 2024 season where they claimed the U.S. Open Cup, the stage is set for a challenging and rewarding season ahead. Cherundolo remains optimistic about tightening up team chemistry and strategy as they approach their home opener against Minnesota United on February 22.