RECAP: Own Goal Leads LAFC to Victory - Los Angeles Sports Nation

LAFC took a crucial step into qualifying for the 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs.

With a 3-2 victory over Real Salt Lake, LAFC is tied in points for the final playoff spot.

LAFC Resilient in Win Over Real Salt Lake

Two goals from Cristian, Chicho, Arango, and an own goal gave LAFC the victory. A very wild back and forth game from the start, with LAFC scoring just 20 seconds in. The goal scored by Cristian Arango was at the time his fifth since joining the club. Thus allowing LAFC to control the majority of the first half up until the 27th minute. Where LAFC killer Damir Kreilach tied it up with a tremendous strike outside the 18-yard box. However, just three minutes later, another goal by Chicho Arango made it 2-1.

Three minutes into the second half, Real Salt Lake tied the match. However, in the 59th minute, a horrendous mistake and miscommunication by Toni Datković and his goalkeeper gave LAFC the lead when he scored into his own net.

LAFC went on to defend the rest of the match extremely well. They would eventually win with a score of 3-2 and are on the verge of a playoff spot.

What Worked for LAFC This Week

It looks like LAFC is finding its rhythm at the perfect time. Now back-to-back victories in two different but convincing fashions. Maybe they can qualify for playoffs and compete for the MLS Cup. LAFC started off strong, scoring just 20 seconds into the match. Also, they were able to rebound strongly after conceding the tie twice and doing it without Carlos Vela still injured and Diego Rossi, who now plays in the Turkish league. Players like Atuesta and Musovski have stepped up, playing critical roles in this LAFC team. However, it is the resiliency that this team has that allowed them to come out with the win last week. After Real Salt Lake tied, LAFC quickly retook the lead.

Something that has LAFC fans cheerings knowing that their team can take a hit but still be able to fight back. Another key player for this match was Chicho Arango.

Chicho’s goals have been crucial for the club scoring in the past three games. With his two goals, he now has six on the season after joining just a little over a month and a half ago. With his performance this past weekend, scoring two goals, he was named MLS Player of The Week for week 24.

The Final Push for Playoffs

LAFC travels to Texas to take on Austin FC on Wednesday, September 15th. Once again, LAFC is looking for the season sweep against Austin FC. The previous encounter was back in July, where LAFC won 2-0. This time, however, many new faces will travel to take on Austin. Including newly signed goalkeeper Jamal Blackman a youth prospect from English team Chelsea F.C. While LAFC has struggled to find a convincing goalkeeper ever since they traded Tyler Miller. This isn’t the first time LAFC brought in a goalkeeper from Europe, as Kenneth Vermeer was part of this club’s short history. Vermeer and LAFC had mutually agreed to part ways in April of 2021.

During the middle of this season, LAFC saw a change in goal once again. This time it was Pablo Sisniega getting benched for Tomas Romero. With Blackman’s arrival, will LAFC see once again another change in goal. Will LAFC wait until next season to play Blackman? Only time will tell.