Los Angeles FC (LAFC) secured their spot in the Round of 16 of the Concacaf Champions Cup by defeating the Colorado Rapids 1-0 on Tuesday night at BMO Stadium. The match concluded with LAFC and the Rapids tied 2-2 on aggregate, which allowed LAFC to advance due to the away goals tiebreaker.
The lone goal of the evening came from Mark Delgado just four minutes after halftime, effectively turning the tide for LAFC. Assisted by David Martínez, Delgado slid to connect with Martinez's low cross and redirected it past Rapids goalkeeper Zack Steffen. This goal not only leveled the series but also positioned LAFC to advance based on the away-goal advantage.
Hugo Lloris, LAFC’s goalkeeper, showcased his prowess by achieving his first clean sheet of the tournament. He successfully denied multiple attempts from the Rapids, including notable saves against Cole Bassett, ensuring his team maintained their narrow lead.
During the match, Colorado attempted to take control early, with numerous shots aimed at LAFC’s defense. Despite their efforts, including Rafael Navarro’s long-range effort missing the target, they were unable to capitalize on any scoring opportunities.
LAFC's head coach, Steve Cherundolo, had emphasized the need for his team to score at least once to avoid elimination after their previous 2-1 loss to the Rapids. With temperatures around 60 degrees, the Southern California evening contrasted significantly with the single-digit temperatures of the first leg played at Commerce City.
The match began with the Rapids applying pressure, but LAFC soon responded with tenacity. After halftime, they launched their attack with Delgado's goal becoming the decisive factor as they held firm against the Rapids' pushes for the equalizer.
“It felt great. It was exciting,” Delgado expressed after the match, reflecting on his goal and how it propelled his team forward. “I was happy to celebrate it with the team. And celebrate the victory.”
Colorado Rapids' coach Chris Armas noted the strong performance of his players throughout the tournament. Despite the loss, his team had several debutants who gained valuable playoff experience.
The outcome means LAFC will face off against the Columbus Crew next, who advanced automatically due to their Leagues Cup 2024 title win. This upcoming showdown is particularly significant as the two teams are familiar with each other, having faced off last year when the Crew defeated LAFC 3-1 in the Leagues Cup final.
After two prior semifinal finishes, including last's year’s final against Liga MX side Pachuca, LAFC aims for redemption. John Thorrington, LAFC’s general manager, has worked tirelessly during the offseason to craft a competent team capable of going all the way this time.
Cherundolo noted the importance of versatility and experience among the players he sought to recruit this offseason. Mark Delgado, who previously played for the LA Galaxy, has proven to be instrumental for LAFC already, contributing to their success early on.
This match marked the fifth consecutive home shutout victory for LAFC against the Rapids, extending their dominance at BMO Stadium. LAFC has emerged victorious from all eight home encounters with Colorado, scoring 23 goals and allowing only two during these fixtures.
The match was momentarily stalled as well, when events on the field required review over allegations of inappropriate conduct aimed at one of the players. Cherundolo weighed in cautiously, indicating the team's support for their players and the referees' role in resolving such issues.
With determination renewed and their aspirations high, LAFC’s next matchup against the Columbus Crew on March 4 is set to be another chapter filled with intensity and ambition as they look to secure their first Concacaf Champions Cup title.