LAFC took a trip to Mexico to kick off the start of the CONCACAF Champions League Final. For the second time in club history LAFC were in the Final of the illustrious competition, and for the second time in club history the team was up against Mexican giant León, in said tournament.
Tonight’s #LAFC Starting XI vs. @clubleonfc. #SCCL23 pic.twitter.com/qdZ6Ygf9vI
— LAFC (@LAFC) June 1, 2023
Both sides know the importance of starting off fast, and it was the home side who struck first, and early. In just the eighth minute, León took full advantage of a cornerkick. A great ball sent into the box found William Tesillo who climbed the ladder to put on a headed strike for the lead.
⚽ 🥅 ¡Golazo de @clubleonfc! 🦁
¡@williamtesillo anota de cabeza el primero de la Final de #SCCL23! pic.twitter.com/IpoVlmnR6S
— Scotiabank Concacaf Champions League (@TheChampions) June 1, 2023
LAFC did well to keep calm, but could not find the rhythm we are accustomed to seeing from them. The black & gold finished the first half with just three shots, with only one finding the target. The hill only got steeper as the first half ended, with the home side being awarded a penalty after VAR determined LAFC defender Ryan Hollingshead got a hand on the ball during a play at goal. Ángel Mena stepped up to the spot, and put it top shelf where the keeper couldn’t reach, and doubled the lead as the first half came to an end.
As capable as LAFC are, the last thing they wanted to do was go back to Los Angeles for leg two down multiple goals. Luckily, they are a team that can get better as the match goes on, so a two goal deficit wasn’t too dire. Head Coach Steve Cherundolo made some great subs early on to start the second half and they immediately changed the match.
LAFC didn’t score right away, but it was evident the substitutes made them a different side. The attack opened up, and the opportunities began to flow. It took until the very, and we mean very, last minute but LAFC found the goal they so desperately wanted. Denis Bouanga added to his incredibly goal tally, at the right spot at the perfect moment, getting just enough on an excellent ball into the box.
— LAFC (@LAFC) June 1, 2023
The bad news, LAFC were headed back to Los Angeles, for leg two, down a goal. The silver lining, they have been in this situation against León before, and we all remember how that played out.
What do you think of the match? Leave a comment below!