Son Hyun Min Shines in MLS Debut, Securing a Draw for LAFC Against Chicago Fire

Just days after joining LAFC, star forward Son Heung-Min made his highly anticipated debut.

Last week, after playing for Tottenham Hotspur for a decade, he stepped onto the MLS field for his first match with LAFC against the Chicago Fire on Saturday. He entered the game in the 61st minute, quickly garnering cheers from the crowd at Seat Geek Stadium in Chicago.

At that point, the score was tied 1-1, with Chicago’s Carlos Terran scoring in the 11th minute and LA’s Ryan Hollingshead equalizing just eight minutes later. Chicago regained the lead with a goal from Jonathan Bamba in the 70th minute.

As the game neared the 80-minute mark, Son was fouled by Terran in the penalty area. Although the referee allowed play to continue initially, the decision was reviewed by VAR, leading to the awarding of a penalty kick to LAFC and a yellow card for Terran.

Dennis Boanga, who came on for LAFC at halftime, successfully converted the penalty, leveling the score.

In his limited time on the field, Son showed his impact immediately; besides drawing the penalty, he took three shots, though Chicago goalkeeper Chris Brady managed to save them quite comfortably.

This immediate influence is precisely what LAFC sought when they signed him for a record MLS transfer fee of $26.5 million. Remarkably, it only took him six days after signing to make his LAFC debut, a performance that could be pivotal in helping the team secure much-needed points.

For Son, this match represented an important chance to establish himself in the American soccer scene. He received a warm welcome from the LA community as he prepared for his first game.

The draw positions LAFC in fifth place in the crowded MLS Western Conference, just one point behind both the Portland Timbers and the Seattle Sounders. LAFC has also only played 23 matches compared to the 26 played by San Diego FC, currently leading the West with 49 points.