September 26 – LAFC put run of four losing finals in cup competitions behind them to beat Sporting Kansas City 3-1 in the final of the US Open Cup at their home BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.
It took a goal from 37-year-old former France, Arsenal and Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud to open their account with a 53rd minute tap-in though the lead was short-lived with Kansas City’s Erik Thommy equalising seven minutes later.
Into extra time goals from substitutes Omar Campos and Kei Kamara sealed the win for LAFC.
Campos scored on 102 minutes with a low finish inside the far post, while former Sporting Kansas City player Kamara headed in on 109 minutes to put the match beyond doubt.
It is LAFC’s third title under head coach Steve Cherundolo but comes after a run of losing finals including the Leagues Cup in the summer and the 2023 MLS Cup to Columbus Crew.
“I came here to win trophies and to play that kind of final,” said Giroud.
“I was really sad and disappointed for the team regarding the Leagues Cup. We’ve been in a difficult run these last weeks, but we stuck together, and we really wanted to win this trophy.”
LAFC could become only the fourth MLS side to complete a league and cup double. The are currently fourth in the MLS Western Conference but look set for a play-off place.
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Source link : https://www.insideworldfootball.com/2024/09/27/giroud-puts-lafc-course-open-cup-win-run-losing-finals/
Author : Paul Nicholson
Publish date : 2024-09-27 00:45:55
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