Los Angeles FC's attempt to win back-to-back MLS Cup titles failed last year, losing to the Columbus Crew in the final. Steve Cherundolo's side lost club icon Carlos Vela during the off-season, but they once again look set to face a serious post-season challenge.
Wednesday evening Los Angeles beat Minnesota United 2-0 at BMO Stadium, extending their winning streak to six matches. And this is the last win for the goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has now gone 485 minutes without conceding a goalsetting a club record.
Speaking after Minnesota's win, Cherundolo praised his team's historic defensive record: “It's always collective. It's making good decisions with the ball when you're going forward.”
“There is still room for improvement, but I was very happy and pleased with the performance tonight. He was professional. It was controlled. At no point during the game was I afraid that we would lose, nor did I see Minnesota as a threat. This was the way you should play at home against a very good team.
When will Olivier Giroud join Los Angeles?
Lloris wasn't the only Los Angeles player to reach a significant milestone on Wednesday night. Dennis Bwangathe 2023 MLS Golden Boot winner, scored the goal 50th goal in his career with LAFC With a penalty kick in the first half. Villa and Diego Rossi are the only other players to reach half-centuries for the Black and Gold.
After a slow start to the year, Bwanga is back to his level of form in 2023 and will benefit from a big summer signing with Los Angeles. French World Cup winner Olivier Giroud will arrive from Milan after representing his country in the European Championship. The veteran forward will provide a crucial focal point for Los Angeles' attack and his game-playing intelligence will help unleash Bouanga's speed.
Giroud cannot complete his move to MLS until the league opens Secondary transfer window on July 18. However, with major international commitments that could culminate in the European Championship final on July 15, the 37-year-old will certainly need some rest before taking to the field in Los Angeles. He could be looking to make his debut after the League Cup ends midway through the season Major League Soccer matches will resume on August 24.
“I am happy and excited to join LA,” Giroud said when he was officially announced as a Los Angeles player earlier this month. “I can't wait to get to Los Angeles and play in front of 3252 and all the amazing fans.”
