Late Bouanga Strike Lifts LAFC Past Atlanta United at BMO Stadium
Denis Bouanga Late Goal Celebration. (Photo: Juan Hernandez)
LAFC continued their strong end-of-season form with a narrow 1–0 victory over Atlanta United on Sunday night at BMO Stadium. A late goal from star forward Denis Bouanga secured all three points for the Black & Gold, extending their winning streak to five straight matches and clinching home-field advantage for the first round of the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Mark Delgado Battling Between 3 Defenders. (Photo: Juan Hernandez)
First Half: LAFC Control, Atlanta Sit Deep
From kickoff, LAFC set the tone with their high-pressing and fast-tempo play. Atlanta United, missing several key starters, focused on a deep defensive block, looking to frustrate the hosts and hit on quick counters.
Mark Delgado dictated the pace in midfield, helping LAFC control nearly 55% of possession. The home side created several half-chances early, with Heung Min Son and Denis Bouanga both forcing saves from Atlanta goalkeeper Jayden Hibbert.
Despite dominating the first half, LAFC couldn’t find a breakthrough. Atlanta’s defensive structure held strong, anchored by center-backs J.Berrocal and E.Mihaj. The visitors, however, offered little going forward — managing just one shot in the entire first period, leaving the game scoreless at halftime.
Second Half: Persistence Pays Off
LAFC resumed the second half with the same attacking energy. Manager Steve Cherundolo brought on Timothy Tillman to add more creativity in the middle, while Bouanga and Son continued to stretch Atlanta’s back line.
Atlanta remained compact and disciplined, with Hibbert once again making key saves — including a strong stop on Ryan Hollingshead’s header in the 56th minute.
As the game approached its final stages, the pressure finally told. In the 86th minute, LAFC found their long-awaited breakthrough. Mark Delgado sent in a well-placed cross that was flicked on by Tillman and deflected off Atlanta’s Enea Mihaj, landing perfectly for Bouanga, who blasted home a right-footed volley from close range.
The crowd erupted as Bouanga celebrated his 24th goal of the MLS season — a tally that tied him with Lionel Messi in the Golden Boot race. It was also a special milestone for the Gabonese striker, marking his 99th goal in all competitionsfor LAFC in what was his 100th MLS appearance for the club.
Defensive Discipline and Clean Sheet
While the spotlight shone on Bouanga’s winner, LAFC’s defensive unit also earned credit. Eddie Segura and Ryan Hollingshead were solid at the back, limiting Atlanta’s attacking duo of A.Miranchuk and M.Almiron to minimal chances.
Goalkeeper Hugo Lloris had a quiet but steady night, recording his 11th clean sheet of the season. LAFC’s defensive organization never wavered, even as Atlanta pushed forward in the dying minutes in search of an equalizer.
Tactical Takeaways
LAFC’s patience was key. Despite 15 total shots and plenty of possession, they waited until the right moment to strike, showing maturity and confidence.
Atlanta’s low block frustrated LAFC, but their limited attacking options made it difficult to relieve pressure or test Lloris.
Bouanga remains unstoppable, proving once again why he’s among the league’s elite with his late-game heroics and consistency in front of goal.
What’s Next
LAFC return to action on Wednesday, October 8, when they host Toronto FC in their final home match of the regular season. A win could keep their push for a top-three finish in the Western Conference alive.
Atlanta United, meanwhile, travel south to face Inter Miami CF next Saturday, as they fight to keep their playoff hopes alive.