LAFC secures home advantage for playoffs after dominant win over Sporting KC

O Los Angeles FC is indeed on a roll, and last Saturday's 3-0 win over Sporting Kansas City left no doubt about that. In a short span of 11 days, the team secured its fourth consecutive victory, establishing itself as one of the favorites for the Audi 2024 MLS Cup. Outside of locking up home-field advantage through the first stage of the playoffs, Black & Gold put in a dominant, organized, efficient performance that marked the match at Children's Mercy Park.

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But what is more impressive about this winning streak? This was LAFC's eighth match in 29 days, and the team is still showing high-intensity soccer-even at a period in the season in which most teams struggle to maintain it.

A Powerful Start

Just 14 minutes into the match, David Martínez opened the score. The 18-year-old forward, who has stood out for his energy and technique, took advantage of a rebound after Tim Melia, the Sporting Kansas City goalkeeper, saved a penalty. Denis Bouanga, whose penalty was saved, had set up play that resulted in the first goal of LAFC. That kind of offensive movement defines Black & Gold: speed and efficiency.

Martínez's goal was much more than important in the scoreboard but for the confidence level of the whole team. From that moment on, LAFC dominated the match, setting up the pace and keeping smart possession. Kansas City turned out to be out of rhythm and barely troubled Hugo Lloris, the experienced French goalkeeper in brilliant shape in MLS.

Stretching the Advantage

Still in the first half, LAFC scored again. At 45 minutes, in stoppage time, Cristian Olivera, one of the standout players this season, increased the lead with a precise finish inside the box. Again, the pass came through Bouanga, who has been essential in the team's offensive play so far. Olivera, with his sixth goal of the season, showed the ability to position himself and finish with precision when the opportunity arises.

This second goal sealed the fate of Sporting Kansas City in the match practically. Playing at home, the team could not respond to such solid defense and lethal attack. The whistle blew for halftime, and LAFC went into the locker room with an advantage that had all appearances of being irreversible, given the level of control over the first 45 minutes.

Aaron Long's Final Touch

In the second half, it was captain Aaron Long, who wore the armband with authority, with his first goal for LAFC. At the 69-minute mark, in an extraordinary well-worked team play, Long finished with his right foot from outside the box and sealed Sporting KC's fate. It was a symbolic moment for Long, who hadn't scored since August 2022, and it went to show that besides being a defensive pillar, he can also contribute offensively.

It is fair to say, though, that the leadership on the field was an essential factor for LAFC in order to keep focus and dominance in the space without allowing Kansas City a chance to make a comeback. Steve Cherundolo's team has shown solidity that only a few expected to hold after such a tight schedule.

Hugo Lloris: Steady Presence

Speaking of LAFC's win, one thing that can just not be overlooked is the performance of Hugo Lloris. The French goalkeeper, boasting much international experience, recorded his 11th clean sheet of the season, setting a record for the most clean sheets a keeper has ever kept in one season for LAFC. His precise saves were once again crucial to ensure the team kept the scoreline favorable.

Lloris, with 11 clean sheets this season, has proved to be the signing that brought security and stability to the backline. He does not only pull off spectacular saves, but he is vocal and organizes the backline, therefore giving confidence to the rest of the team. This kind of presence between the posts makes all the difference, especially during the vital moments of the season.

Playoffs on the Horizon

With the win, LAFC clinched home-field advantage for Round One of the Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs. Home-field advantage is always a determining factor in the playoffs, and LAFC knows how to make full use of the support from the stands. Besides that, the team is reaching this crucial phase of the season with form that is really impressive: an attack that is razor-sharp and a defense that is well marshaled.

Another important point, considering emphasizing, refers to the performance of head coach Steve Cherundolo. This victory marked his 100th match as LAFC head coach in the MLS regular season, and the numbers are to his favor: 52 wins in his first 100 games place Cherundolo among the best in league history regarding this aspect. With such a packed schedule, his ability to keep the team competitive is simply a reflection of the constant and efficient work at the helm of Black & Gold.