Black & Gold Dominate the Night: LAFC Seal 7–1 Aggregate Triumph Over Real España at BMO Stadium
New Signing A.Boudri #65 Showed out in yesterdays match up. (Photo By: Concacaf)
Match Overview
Los Angeles FC secured a 1–0 victory over Real España in the second leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup tie at BMO Stadium.
Final Score (Second Leg): LAFC 1–0 Real España
Aggregate Score: LAFC 7–1 Real España
With the result, LAFC advanced comfortably to the Round of 16, completing a dominant two-leg performance.
Denis Bouanga #99 Taking the Corner. (Photo By: Concacaf)
Goal Scorer & Key Moment
64’ — Nkosi Tafari (LAFC)
The breakthrough came midway through the second half. After sustained pressure and a dangerous set-piece delivery into the box, Tafari reacted quickest in a crowded area to finish from close range. His composed strike proved to be the difference on the night.
Though LAFC controlled possession throughout, Real España remained organized defensively, forcing the home side to be patient in their build-up.
Ryan Raposo #21 (Photo By: Concacaf)
First Half: Controlled but Cautious
LAFC dictated tempo early, moving the ball wide and pressing high up the pitch. However, Real España stayed compact, limiting clear-cut chances.
The visitors looked to counterattack quickly, targeting space behind LAFC’s fullbacks. Despite a few promising transitions, they struggled to register meaningful shots on target before halftime.
The opening 45 minutes ended scoreless, with LAFC clearly in control but still needing a breakthrough to put the tie beyond doubt.
Ryan Hollingshead #24 (Photo By: Concacaf)
Second Half: Pressure Pays Off
The intensity increased after the break. LAFC pushed numbers forward and began stretching Real España’s defensive lines. The breakthrough arrived in the 64th minute through Tafari’s finish.
Real España nearly created late drama when they were awarded a penalty in the closing minutes. However, goalkeeper Thomas Hasal stepped up with a crucial save to preserve the clean sheet and cap off a professional performance.
A.Boudri Being intercepted by Real España Defender. (Photo By: Concacaf)
Aggregate Dominance
Much of the tie had already been decided in the first leg, where LAFC delivered a commanding 6–1 win in Honduras. Forward Denis Bouanga led the charge in that match with a hat trick, giving LAFC a massive advantage heading into the return fixture.
The second leg was more controlled and strategic, with squad rotation and game management playing key roles.
Denis Bouanga #99 (Photo By: Concacaf)
Tactical Breakdown
LAFC Strengths:
High pressing disrupted Real España’s buildup.
Strong midfield control limited counterattacks.
Effective use of width created crossing opportunities.
Defensive composure late in the match.
Real España’s Approach:
Deep defensive block.
Quick transition play.
Physical presence on set pieces.
Attempt to capitalize on late momentum.
LAFC Starting XI vs Real España (Photo By: Concacaf)
What’s Next
With the 7–1 aggregate victory, LAFC move on to face L.D. Alajuelense in the Round of 16. The next phase of the tournament presents a sterner test, as continental competition intensifies.
Final Takeaway
LAFC delivered a professional, disciplined performance at home. While the scoreline on the night was narrow, the aggregate result reflects their dominance across both legs.
A clean sheet, squad rotation, and continued attacking depth highlight why LAFC remain strong contenders in this year’s Champions Cup campaign.