Los Angeles FC and Club America are set to clash in what’s being dubbed the "10 million dollar game" at the upcoming Club World Cup on Saturday. Following Leon’s exit from the tournament due to multi-club ownership regulations under FIFA, a playoff match was established to determine the final slot in Group D, which also includes Chelsea, Flamengo, and Esperance.
This matchup arises from LAFC’s compliance in the 2023 CONCACAF Champions Cup. Currently, Club America holds the top rank in FIFA’s Club World Cup confederation standings. With a packed BMO Stadium, LAFC is heavily backed by its supporters as they aim to advance further. Two MLS teams, Inter Miami and the Seattle Sounders, have already qualified, along with La Liga MX teams Monterrey and CF Pachuca, making the victor of this match crucial in determining which leagues will have three representatives.
How to Watch Los Angeles FC vs. Club America
- Date: Saturday, May 31st
- Time: 10:30 PM
- Location: BMO Stadium, Los Angeles, California
- Live Stream: Dazn USA
- Odds: LAFC +150; Draw +220; Club America +165
Previous Encounters
In their last meeting during preseason in February, LAFC secured a 2-1 victory, with Dennis Bouanga scoring. For LAFC to succeed in the Club World Cup, Bouanga will need to replicate this performance. Historically, LAFC has performed well against La Liga MX teams, including a notable 3-1 win over America in the 2020 CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Projected Lineups
- LAFC: Hugo Lloris, Ryan Hollingshead, Aaron Long, Eddie Segura, Sergi Palencia, Marco Delgado, Igor Jesus, Frankie Amaya, Dennis Bouanga, Oliver Giroux, Nathan Aldaz
- Club America: Luis Maragus, Sebastian Caceres, Ramon Juarez, Israel Reyes, Kevin Alvarez, Alvaro Fidalgo, Jonathan Dos Santos, Eric Sanchez, Henry Martin, Alex Zendejas
Key Player
Dennis Bouanga (LAFC): Stopping Bouanga is essential for Club America if they wish to win. Given his impressive record of 48 goals in 84 games, along with eight playoff goals in 12 matches, he could be the decisive factor in this encounter.
Important Storyline
Impact of Coach Steve Cherundolo’s Departure: Recently, LAFC’s coach announced he would resign at the end of the season, causing ripples in the MLS. With LAFC currently struggling, sitting sixth in the Western Conference, balancing their offense and defense will be crucial as they face a formidable Club America squad.
Prediction
With Bouanga’s trajectory, I foresee LAFC edging out Club America for a place in the Club World Cup. It’s been a challenging season for America, having already faltered in the Liga MX Clausura final, but this match represents a chance for LAFC to shine. Prediction: LAFC 2, Club America 1.
Why This Matters to Soccer Fans
This match not only highlights the growing competitiveness between MLS and Liga MX but also emphasizes the significance of international tournaments in elevating club profiles. For fans, securing a place in the Club World Cup could open doors for greater recognition and investment in American soccer, further bridging the gap between leagues.
