Bouanga Hat-Trick Leads LAFC to Massive Road Victory in Honduras
Denis Bouanga #99 (Photo By: @Concacaf)
Background: What This Match Meant
The game took place on Tuesday night at Estadio Francisco Morazán in San Pedro Sula, Honduras as the opening leg of the Round One tie in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup. It was Real España’s first competitive match in this tournament since 2023, while Los Angeles FC arrived as one of the top MLS sides last season, aiming to make a statement early in their continental campaign.
Denis Bouanga #99 (Photo By: @Concacaf)
Lightning Fast Start
LAFC wasted no time setting the tone. Within the first three minutes, they were awarded a penalty — and Denis Bouanga confidently converted, giving the visitors an instant lead.
Just eight minutes later, LAFC struck again. Son Heung‑Min delivered a precise pass to David Martínez, who finished smoothly to make it 2–0.
Son Heung Min #7 (Photo By: @concacaf)
Dominance Before the Half
The momentum didn’t slow. Around the 22nd minute, LAFC earned yet another penalty, this time Son Heung‑Minconverted from the spot to extend the lead to 3–0.
Minutes later, Son turned provider, finding Bouanga who finished clinically to make it 4–0. By the 39th minute, Timothy Tillman added a fifth, wrapping up a 5–0 advantage before halftime. LAFC’s first-half performance was relentless and clinical.
David Martinez #30 trying to recover ball (Photo By: @concacaf)
Second Half: España Gets a Goal
Real España came out stronger after the break. Jack Jean‑Baptiste pulled one back in the 51st minute, giving the home fans something to cheer about. Despite this, LAFC remained in control.
Bouanga Completes the Hat‑Trick
Around the 71st minute, Bouanga grabbed his third goal of the night, restoring the five-goal cushion and sealing the emphatic 6–1 final scoreline.
Mark Delgado #8 (Photo By: @concacaf)
Final Score and Stats
Final Result: Real España 1 — 6 Los Angeles FC
Goal Scorers:
LAFC: Denis Bouanga (3′ pen, 24′, 71′), David Martínez (11′), Son Heung‑Min (22′ pen), Timothy Tillman (39′)
Real España: Jack Jean‑Baptiste (51′)
LAFC dominated possession, fired on all cylinders offensively, and showcased sharp finishing from start to finish.
What This Means Going Forward
With a huge road win, LAFC are in a commanding position heading into the second leg at BMO Stadium. Real España will need a near-perfect performance next week to have any chance of overturning the deficit.