Denis Bouanga scored on a first-half penalty kick to propel Los Angeles FC to a 1-0 road victory over Minnesota United on Wednesday night at Allianz Field in Saint Paul[1]. The decisive moment came in the 42nd minute, when Bouanga, after a foul by Minnesota defender Nicolas Romero on Jeremy Ebobisse, powered his penalty into the top left corner for his 11th goal of the season[1]. It marked LAFC’s first-ever win in seven attempts on Minnesota soil and only their second away win this MLS campaign[1].
LAFC’s Hugo Lloris made three saves, securing his third consecutive shutout and ninth of the year[1]. His solid performance, along with a disciplined five-man back line, neutralized Minnesota’s attack, particularly in the second half[1]. Minnesota had several set piece opportunities, earning 10 corners and 11 free-kicks, but struggled to break down LAFC’s deep defensive setup[5].
Dayne St. Clair kept the home side in the match with five saves, including key stops late against Bouanga[1]. Ultimately, Minnesota’s hopes for an equalizer faded, with close chances falling short and set pieces lacking their usual impact[5]. The result snapped Minnesota’s four-match unbeaten streak, keeping them third in the Western Conference with 40 points, while LAFC moved up in the standings to fourth place with 35 points[2].
The loss leaves Minnesota with questions about their performance against the league’s top teams; all three of their home defeats this season have come against fellow Western Conference contenders[3]. LAFC, meanwhile, adapted impressively despite missing captain Aaron Long due to a season-ending Achilles injury[1].
References
- [1] Denis Bouanga fuels LAFC to surprise road win over Minnesota United | Field Level Media
- [2] Minnesota United vs Los Angeles FC live score, H2H and lineups | Sofascore
- [3] Loons lose again to top talent, fall 1-0 to LAFC – Star Tribune
- [5] Loons Drop LAFC Rematch in Tight One at Allianz Field | MN United