Despite loss in Mexico, LAFC optimistic about second leg of Champions League Final
LAFC fell to Club Léon in Mexico on Wednesday in the opening game of the CONCACAF Champions League Final, but a last-minute goal from Denis Bouanga just might be the difference in leg two.
The Gabonese striker fired home in the 96th minute to tilt the balance of the matchup closer toward LAFC.
LAFC struggled in the opening half, with Léon passing circles around the club's midfield. But as the game evolved in its final stages, LA—the 2022 MLS champs—dug its heels in and played well.
"Our passing was some of the worst I've seen all season," LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo said after the match. "Credit to Léon. They played excellent in the first half. We didn't have answers for that."
Despite his disappointment in LAFC's first-half performance, Cherundolo was optimistic about his team's chances at home in leg two on Sunday in Los Angeles.
"I think the scoreline is extremely lucky for us," he admitted, "but we are experienced enough, smart enough to bounce back. We're also fit enough to put in a much better performance on Sunday. And this team knows exactly what's at stake. So I'm 100% positive LAFC's performance on Sunday will be much improved, and hopefully good enough to raise a trophy."
LAFC must win Sunday by two goals or more to clinch the trophy; if it wins by just one, the final will be tied on aggregate and will move into extra time.
Luckily for LAFC, the club is undefeated at home in MLS this season, outscoring opponents, 18-5.
"There's a whole 'nother game, and that's in Los Angeles," Cherundolo reminded the media. "And like I said, we expect to bounce back pretty quickly and improve."
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