Los Angeles Football Club player Denis Bouanga is having the time of his life with the club.
On Saturday, May 13th, LAFC defeated Real Salt Lake 3-0 at America First Field Stadium.
Bouanga, Kwadwo Opoku, and Mateusz Bogusz’s goals were enough to get LAFC the three points. But the most significant moment for LAFC on Saturday was Bouanga’s spectacular goal.
The Gabonese international scored an absolute rocket sending the ball to the top left corner. Bouanga now scored nine goals in the last ten games. Since Bouanga is taking LAFC to another level, let’s break down Bouanga’s youth career and style of play.
Bouanga’s Early Years
Photo: —When Bouanga was a child, he followed Ronaldo Nazário or R9. He watched the way Ronaldo plays and the way he dribbles through opponents. However, Ronaldo was known for his quality and finishing but struggled with injuries. Ronaldo’s quality and style of play made Bounanga want to play like the Brazilian.
Bouanga’s father, who played professional football, convinced his brother Didier Bouanga and Bouanga to play football. His father pushed them to become professional players because football is his passion.
The 28-year-old played with his brother and father for Le Mans FC, which is how he loved the game. Bouanga’s mother’s support made him play football more.
During his youth career, his goal on the pitch was to dribble and score goals. Then, at 18, Bouanga signed his first professional contract with Lorient.
Bouanga’s Style of Play
Bouanga’s goal is to play striker, but he can also play right back, wing, as the No. 10, and as a No. 9. The Gabonese is known for playing with good players like Carlos Vela, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, among others.
One example is when Gabon played against Angola, Aubameyang started a counter-attack with Bouanga in support. Aubameyang wins the chase with the opponent but is forced wide, and Bouanga makes space, and Aubameyang hooks a ball into the rival’s area.
He runs without the ball and creates spaces for himself and others. Bouanga is also known for his powerful shot and directness in goal.
Now that he’s at LAFC, Bouanga is an essential player for the club; he scored 15 goals in all competitions.
His goals and contribution will help the team take the club forward and possibly defend the MLS Cup.
Featured Image: ---
