Denis Bouanga leads LAFC to the Club World Cup

Los Angeles FC (LAFC) advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup thanks to Gabonese attacker Denis Bouanga, who won the game in extra time during their playoff match against Club América at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.

Brian Rodriguez scored from the penalty spot for Club América in the 64th minute, giving them the lead after a goalless first half.

In the 89th minute, LA FC equalized by a perfectly executed cross from Bouanga to Igor Jesus from a corner, and he headed home, forcing extra time.

Bounga gave his team the victory in the 115th minute when he put the ball past Club América goalkeeper Rodolfo Cota with his first attempt from the area’s edge.

“To win this game, we put in a lot of effort,” Bouanga stated.

He remarked, “It was a fantastic game, and it was amazing for us and the entire stadium. We’re heading to Atlanta now.”

Bounga made his Gabon debut in 2017 and has scored five goals in six World Cup qualifying matches for the country.

At the FIFA Club World Cup, which will be held from June 14 to July 13, LAFC will be in group D alongside Chelsea, Flamengo, and Espérance Sportive de Tunis.