LAFC vs Monterey Bay FC – May 9, 2023
After winning a penalty kick shootout following a 2-2 tie going into overtime, the LAFC vs Monterey Bay FC match In the Round of 32 of the Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup concluded with a win for the Black and Gold. LAFC now advance to the Round of 16.
Coach Steve Cherundolo decided to rotate the young LAFC starting lineup which featured six players from LAFC2, the Los Angeles Football Club’s MLS Next Pro team. This was due to preparation for the upcoming Concacaf Champions League Final match against Club León of Mexico.
LAFC forward Christian Torres scored in the 25th minute of the LAFC vs Monterey Bay FC match to give LAFC the lead in the first half. It was until all the way into the 90th minute of the second half where Monterey Bay FC equalized the game due to Simon Dawkins’ goal. Monterey Bay then scored again just 5 minutes after in overtime following a shot from Jesse Maldonado.
In a clutch play during stoppage time in the 105th minute, 18 year old Matheus Maia scored on a right footed shot from the center of the box to the bottom left corner. Danny Crisostomo was credited with the assist.
The LAFC vs Monterey Bay FC highlights finished off with penalty kicks, which LAFC would win 5–4. Eldin Jakupovic, a veteran goalkeeper for LAFC, put on an outstanding performance, helping LAFC defeat Monterey Bay FC with two saves and a goal.
The Black and Gold will go back at it on Saturday, May 13 against Real Salt Lake at America First Field.
