From the Brink to the World Stage: LAFC Outlasts Club América

In a match filled with emotion, physicality, and high-stakes moments, LAFC delivered one of the most dramatic wins in club history, defeating Club América 2–1 in extra time at BMO Stadium. The result sends LAFC to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, where they’ll represent MLS on the global stage for the first time.

Both teams came out with intensity, pressing high and trading early control in a physical opening stretch. Club América held more of the ball early, while LAFC relied on structured defending and quick transitions. Fouls were frequent, space was hard to find, and neither side managed a shot that truly threatened. Despite LAFC earning several corners, the first 45 minutes ended in a scoreless deadlock.

The breakthrough came in the second half when a VAR review awarded Club América a penalty in the 64th minute. Brian Rodríguez stepped up and converted, giving the visitors a 1–0 lead and tilting momentum their way. The visitors pressed to extend the lead, but LAFC stayed composed and began to fight their way back into the match.

With time running out, LAFC turned up the pressure and began creating real danger. Substitutions added fresh legs, and in the 89th minute, their persistence paid off. Off a corner, Igor Jesus rose above the defense and buried a powerful header, sending the stadium into chaos and forcing extra time.

The added period featured no drop in intensity. Club América pushed forward, but Hugo Lloris and the LAFC back line held firm, staying organized and composed to keep the match level until the breakthrough came.

That moment arrived in the 115th minute. Denis Bouanga fired home a powerful low strike from just outside the box, giving the hosts a 2–1 lead. Club América scrambled to respond, but LAFC saw out the final minutes with focus and grit.

With the win, LAFC earns a historic berth in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. They’ll compete in Group D of the expanded 32-team tournament alongside European powerhouse Chelsea, South American champions Flamengo, and African giants Espérance de Tunis.

It’s a global stage, and LAFC is ready.