On Saturday, March 15, 2025, the Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) was defeated by Austin FC by a score of 1-0 at BMO Stadium, marking LAFC's first home loss of the season. This closely contested match was highlighted by Austin's effective defense and set-piece prowess.
The game was particularly significant for Austin's Ilie Sanchez, who made his return to BMO Stadium after captaining LAFC just last season. Under his leadership, LAFC had previously enjoyed great success, but this encounter marked a different chapter.
Austin FC opened the scoring just 11 minutes after the match began, taking LAFC by surprise. The goal came from Guilherme Biro, who headed home from a corner kick delivered by Owen Wolff. Biro found space just outside the penalty area, easily redirecting the cross under the outstretched hand of LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.
Despite having several opportunities to level the score, LAFC struggled to break through Austin's formidable defense. A particularly promising chance came in the 26th minute when Cengiz Ünder, who was making his first start for LAFC, carved out space for himself and unleashed a shot, but it curled wide of the far post.
LAFC, trailing at halftime, made tactical adjustments but continued to face challenges. Head coach Steve Cherundolo introduced fresh legs, substituting Ünder later for David Martínez, but the hoped-for spark was elusive. Regardless of their testing conditions—having played eight matches within a demanding 26-day window—LAFC could not find their rhythm against Austin’s low block and relentless midfield press.
This match added to LAFC's recent struggles as they had come off a 2-1 defeat to Columbus Crew midweek during the CONCACAF Champions Cup, which they still managed to advance through on aggregate after winning 5-2 against Seattle prior to the loss. This backdrop of fatigue may have contributed to their inability to convert chances against Austin.
For Austin FC, the win improved their record to 2-2-0, keeping them near the mid-table but showing promise under Sanchez’s guidance. Coach Josh Wolff emphasized the importance of the victory for building momentum: "We are focused on consistency; every match helps us grow collectively. This win reinforces our hard work and determination," he stated.
LAFC’s disappointing result brings them to similar standing alongside Austin with both teams now holding six points after four matches. They will now prepare for their next major fixtures, with LAFC set to face Sporting Kansas City next week and making their debut against San Diego FC on March 29. Conversely, Austin is eager to continue their upward trend as they prepare for subsequent matches.
Despite the defeat, LAFC received some positive news—the team won’t have to tackle midweek matches for the short term, allowing them needed rest before they step back onto the field later this month. This allows the technicians time to analyze the game, strategize rehab for certain players with injuries, and regroup to address what went wrong against Austin FC.
This match will be etched as a lesson for LAFC after their applause-worthy performances from previous seasons, reminding them of the ever-present competition and the necessity of maintaining high standards.
Looking forward, both teams aspire to build off this match's outcomes and address the challenges presented to them, with players and coaching staff alike eager to improve. Fans can expect to see continued excitement and unpredictability as their respective seasons roll on.