In a pivotal MLS Cup playoff match, LAFC’s Denis Bouanga emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal in their 1-0 victory against the Seattle Sounders. Bouanga, this season’s Golden Boot winner, continued his scoring streak with a critical goal in the 30th minute, marking his fourth in the playoffs and sixth in consecutive games.
LAFC’s win, anchored by goalkeeper Maxime Crepeau’s seven saves, ensures their place in the Western Conference final, where they will face the Houston Dynamo next Saturday. This victory keeps alive LAFC’s ambition to be the first team since the LA Galaxy in 2011-12 to win back-to-back championships.
As reported by AP News, Despite Seattle’s dominance in play during the first half, including two early scoring opportunities thwarted by Crepeau, it was Bouanga’s single shot that made the difference. LAFC managed only two shots on target throughout the game, but Bouanga’s efficiency in front of the goal proved decisive.
Crepeau’s exceptional performance was pivotal, starting with a crucial save in the opening minutes against Josh Atencio, followed by a standout stop against Jordan Morris. His efforts were instrumental in ending Seattle’s 19-game unbeaten streak in home playoff matches, a record unbroken since their 2013 postseason loss to Portland.
As Seattle increased their pressure in the game’s final 20 minutes, Crepeau consistently denied them, effectively handling attempts from Alex Roldan, Joao Paulo, and Albert Rusnak’s late effort in stoppage time. This win marks a significant step for LAFC in their quest for another MLS Cup triumph.