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Los Angeles, CA – In a dramatic match at BMO Stadium, Los Angeles FC (LAFC) secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Portland Timbers despite a spirited second-half comeback by the visitors. LAFC took an early lead with an own goal, but Portland mounted a fierce rally to tie the game, only to suffer a late red card that would ultimately swing the match back in LAFC's favor.
The opening goal came in the 27th minute, when Portland's Kamal Miller inadvertently redirected a Bouanga cross into his own net while attempting to clear it. LAFC’s lead grew just before halftime when Timothy Tillman capitalized on a defensive lapse and slotted the ball past the keeper during stoppage time, putting the home side ahead 2-0.
The Timbers emerged from the locker room with a renewed sense of purpose, and their comeback began in the 65th minute, with Jonathan Rodrigues smashing a shot past Hugo Lloris and the LAFC defenders. The equalizer came just eight minutes later, when Santiago Moreno controlled a high cross with his chest, tapped the ball forward, and fired a deflected shot into the back of the net, leaving Lloris no chance.
However, Portland's momentum took a hit in the 76th minute when Diego Chara, their experienced midfielder, received a red card for two quick yellow cards in succession. His first yellow card came in the 73rd minute, and his second just moments later for a reckless challenge, reducing the Timbers to 10 men.
With the numerical advantage, LAFC pressed for a winning goal. It came in the 92nd minute, as Denis Bouanga fired a powerful shot to the far post, hitting the post before crossing the line. This decisive strike sent the BMO Stadium crowd into a frenzy and sealed the victory for LAFC.
When asked about his winning goal and his emotions through the celebration, Bouanga said, "I’ve always been like that. I just hate to lose. I just want to win. I’m addicted to victory. So if I can score in the 94th minute, I’ll do everything [I can]. I love to hear the fans shouting my name, shouting the team’s name and everybody. So that’s why I was fired up.”"
LAFC vs Portland: The victory keeps LAFC in a strong position in the MLS standings, while Portland will need to regroup after a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful comeback attempt. Both teams showcased the excitement and unpredictability that Major League Soccer is known for.