Los Angeles FC (LAFC) faced Austin FC at home on March 15, 2025, hoping to shake off previous disappointments after suffering two consecutive defeats. Unfortunately for the home fans, the match ended with another disappointing result, as LAFC fell to Austin FC 1-0 at BMO Stadium.
The opening goal came early, with Brazilian defender Guilherme Biro finding the net just 11 minutes past kickoff. Biro connected with a corner taken by Owen Wolff, directing his header past LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris, who managed to get just a fingertip on the ball. This goal not only marked another triumph for Biro but also made him one of just nine active MLS players with ten assists before turning 21.
Despite holding over 70% of possession and recording seven shots, LAFC could only muster one shot on target during the first half. This poor showing fueled frustrations among supporters who expected their team to perform fiercely on home turf. Head coach Steve Cherundolo remarked post-game, "The fatigue is clear to see. It’s not an excuse... We prefer playing multiple games in multiple competitions, so this is the challenge we took on, and it is a challenge.”
The second half didn’t bring any respite for the struggling LAFC, who saw their best chance come from Denis Bouanga. After receiving the ball at the far post, the striker took aim but was thwarted by Austin keeper Brad Stuver, who delivered one of several impressive saves during the match.
LAFC's inability to find the back of the net meant their third consecutive defeat, and their second straight MLS loss. The team now faces questions about their form heading toward their next match against Sporting Kansas City, set to take place after their much-needed break. LAFC will need to rediscover their scoring touch if they hope to advance through their upcoming schedule, which includes the Champions Cup quarterfinal against Inter Miami.
Meanwhile, Austin FC’s win moved them up the standings to 2 wins and 2 losses for the year, solidifying new coach Nico Estévez's goals for the season. Estévez stressed the importance of their current form and team mentality, saying, "I believe victories like today show everyone the mentality behind this team... what we want to create.”
Adding to the day's headlines, former France international Paul Pogba watched the game from the stands, celebrating his birthday as he continued to seek his next team after spending nearly 18 months sidelined for doping violations. Pogba’s presence generated excitement, especially among fans eager to see the iconic player on the field again.
LAFC, with their lackluster -2 goal differential, faces challenges but has the chance to rectify their form during their time off before getting back to the grind. The fans will be hoping for significant improvements come match day.
Overall, LAFC's defeat marks this season as notable for missed opportunities and glaring vulnerabilities, indicating it's time for the team to regroup and shift their focus toward regaining their place as top contenders within Major League Soccer.
