LOS ANGELES — The third time is indeed a charm.
LAFC played Austin FC three times this year and lost both games, being completely embarrassed in one. But the revenge was sweet Sunday at Banc of California Stadium as the Black and Gold trounced the Verde 3-0 in the Western Conference final. The dream this franchise has had finally turned into reality — hosting MLS Cup in the heart of Los Angeles. They will host either the Philadelphia Union or defending champs NYCFC on Saturday Nov. 5.
Denis Bouanga was flying all over the pitch, beating his opponents to the ball and creating immense danger in the final third. It was his quick run that allowed him to slip past goalkeeper Brad Stuver and nearly score the opener. That resulted in a corner kick and Cristian “Chicho” Arango sent L.A into a frenzy in the 29th minute when Carlos Vela’s curling corner kick found his head for the set-piece goal.
Austin FC coach Josh Wolff’s midfield was spread too apart and not able to get any cohesion as LAFC broke them down and kept the back line on its heels with multiple long balls that would’ve resulted in more if it wasn’t for Stuver. Not how they drew it up, but they celebrated it tremendously because they knew what the moment meant. Vela amped up the sold-out crowd and told them to get louder than they already were.