LOS ANGELES — LAFC recorded their third straight shut-out in their victory over Toronto FC, 2-0.
LAFC locked in another stellar performance on defense which was not a surprise. The real takeaway from this match is what LAFC was able to contribute on offense.
Before this match, Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-min were the only players to score for LAFC. These players were responsible for all 18 goals from the previous seven games.
The narrative for LAFC was that Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-min are the only capable threats on offense. Now, both players would be ruled inactive, which gave others to step up in their place.
Jeremy Ebobisse provided an early spark as he stole the ball and powered in the first goal of the game. Just like that, the seven-game drought was over, LAFC found a goal without their two top players.
Ebobisse didn’t just break the seven-game drought, but he started the tempo for LAFC. The lead gave LAFC confidence to allow their defense to disrupt Toronto.
LAFC’s 5-3-2 formation was the main factor in unsettling the offensive flow from Toronto. As Toronto controlled possession early on, they couldn’t break this defensive formation from LAFC.
“We will gladly concede a little possession as long as teams are not exposing us in critical spaces and areas and certainly not getting behind our backline,” said Coach Cherundolo. “I'm ok with giving up little possession if that means we're not conceding any real chances.”
Since Toronto's offense was rattled by the pressure, it allowed LAFC to obtain the ball more. The greater possession allowed for another LAFC player to make their mark.
Frankie Amaya delivered a goal at the 69’ mark, which was the nail in the coffin for Toronto. Amaya was the extra boost to further cement how talented this team was.
While, Ebobisse brought in a goal where Toronto was inattentive with the ball. Amaya’s goal was a player dissecting through a defense and nailing in a dagger.
Two players scoring for LAFC is a major boost as they can be counted on if extra help. It allowed other LAFC players to bring in a spark aside from their star duo.
“Frankie stepped up with a nice goal. He was mobile and aggressive,” said Coach Cherundolo. “Which we definitely needed that energy from him when he got on the field.”
LAFC has proven they can score without their two best players and that they can dictate a match with their depth. This can allow LAFC to be defense-oriented when necessary.
Defensively, LAFC has been an immovable object and with the supporting cast showing up on offense, this will greatly help the stars.
An elite duo in Bounga and Heung-min having a strong defense backing them is a strength. But to have enough help on offense is a recipe for success in the playoffs.
This match showed that LAFC is not just two players, but they are a well-rounded team that supports their duo. LAFC is well-rounded enough to eventually become the MLS Champions.