LAFC vs Sporting Kansas City – May 17, 2023
Ending in a draw, the LAFC vs Sporting Kansas City match on Wednesday night at BMO Stadium was the first time this 2023 MLS season where LAFC couldn’t get a win at home. The perfect home start for the Black and Gold ended as the game stayed tied throughout the 98 minutes of play.
On fire as of late, Denis Bouanga scored the first goal of the game early on in the 13th minute. Kwadwo Opoku found Bouanga running down the middle as the forward shot one past Sporting Kansas City goalkeeper Kendall McIntosh. Bouanga now has 10 goals across all competitions in 2023. The French forward almost secured a brace in the 18th minute but his attempt went too far right from the far post.
LAFC held the lead for only seven minutes as Sporting KC answered back quickly with a goal of their own. Forward Johnny Russell drove past three Black and Gold defenders and struck a left-footed shot through the legs of LAFC goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic. Filling in for John McCarthy due to a precautionary bench for a shoulder injury, Jakupovic finished the game with two saves on three shots on goal.
Both clubs showcased a strong defensive performance and it wasn’t until the 85th minute of the game where it looked like there could possibly be a lead change. Ryan Hollingshead completed a flick shot that hit the top bar and into the right corner of the net, but after a VAR check, the play was called offsides.
LAFC is now 6-1-4 with 22 points and remains in second place in the MLS Western Conference. Still undefeated at home, the club will stay home at BMO Stadium to face off against the San Jose Earthquakes on Saturday, May 20.
Watch More LAFC vs Sporting Kansas City Highlights:
LAFC vs Sporting Kansas City – 7/23/23
LAFC vs Sporting Kansas City – 4/17/23