Club América is all set to take on Los Angeles FC (LAFC) this evening, February 11, 2025, at the BMO Stadium, amid high expectations from their fans. This friendly match marks yet another significant duel for the Mexican giants, who are preparing for their upcoming Liga MX commitments, including their next Liga match against Necaxa on February 15.
Unfortunately for LAFC supporters, the team will be without their star and historic reference point, Carlos Vela, who is currently without a contract and officially considered a free agent. The absence of Vela was addressed by LAFC's head coach, Steve Cherundolo, who stated, “Regarding your question about Carlos, I understand he’s in talks with the club, so I will let those conversations continue between both parties.”
Despite Vela's absence, LAFC is still expected to feature celebrated players like Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud, who will be carrying the weight of expectation from the fans. The match will showcase not only the talent on the field but also the deep-rooted competition between two formidable soccer cultures.
Club América arrives at this match with impressive momentum, having started the Liga MX Clausura 2025 campaign with five victories and one draw, making them currently undefeated. Situated at the top of the league table with 16 points and boasting a goal differential of +12, América had their most recent victory against Puebla, winning 2-1, which solidifies their confidence heading onto the field this evening.
Head coach André Jardine has confirmed the availability of all his players for this match, including notable names like goalkeeper Luis Ángel Malagón and Chilean midfielder Diego Valdés, who is expected to take the pitch as a starter at the BMO Stadium.
Fans might be wondering how to catch the game live. While the friendly match will not be available on traditional open-air television, it can be watched on TUDN and streamed through ViX Premium. Kickoff is scheduled for 21:30 hours (Central Mexico Time).
This encounter carries special historical significance as it isn’t the first time these two teams clash. Previously, they faced off during the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions League 2020, where Vela led LAFC to victory with two goals. They also met in 2022 during the Leagues Cup Showcase, which ended in penalties after a goalless draw, with América coming out on top.
Tonight's match serves as not just preparation for LAFC, whose MLS season begins on February 22, but also as useful insights for both teams as they gear up for future competitions. América’s momentum could be pivotal as they navigate their busy schedule through Liga MX, paired with the strategic training against LAFC.
Certain fans have expressed concern over the necessity of such international friendly matches, particularly with the risk of injuries and player fatigue. The schedule is demanding, with América also set to play against Necaxa just days after this encounter, raising the stakes for player rotations and injury management.
Overall, this friendly game not only features intense athletic competition but also serves as a cultural exchange between American and Mexican soccer, highlighting the growing popularity and rivalry across leagues.
With the excitement building, it will be interesting to see how each club's stars perform, especially with the spotlight on newcomers and the prospect of future clashes. Soccer fans eagerly await action at the BMO Stadium this evening.