Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) is set to have their long-awaited rematch with the Columbus Crew after a commanding 4-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids in the Leagues Cup semifinal on Wednesday night at BMO Stadium.
Eight months ago, LAFC’s hopes of repeating as MLS champions were dashed by the Crew in a dramatic 2023 MLS Cup Final. On a night marred by terrible weather and challenging field conditions, LAFC fell 2-1, missing out on a second consecutive title. Since that day, the Black and Gold have been determined to get another shot at the Crew, and now, their opportunity has arrived—but this time, it’s for the 2024 Leagues Cup title.
The breakthrough in the semifinal came in the 42nd minute, when Mateusz Bogusz capped off a brilliant team move with a precise finish, putting LAFC ahead 1-0. The second goal followed swiftly, as veteran striker Kei Kamara, the second-leading goal scorer in MLS history, hammered in a powerful strike to give LAFC a 2-0 lead at halftime.
Denis Bouanga, last season’s MLS Golden Boot winner, added to LAFC’s tally shortly after the break, linking up with new teammate Olivier Giroud to find the back of the net. Bouanga’s left-footed shot into the far post made it 3-0, virtually sealing the victory.
Lewis O’Brien, on loan from Nottingham Forest, completed the scoring in the 75th minute with a well-placed volley from just outside the box, marking his first goal for LAFC and solidifying the 4-0 rout.
With this victory, LAFC not only advances to the Leagues Cup Final but also secures a spot in the 2025 CONCACAF Champions Cup. Their much-anticipated rematch against Columbus Crew is scheduled for August 25th at Lower.com Field in Columbus, Ohio, where LAFC will aim to avenge last year’s MLS Cup loss and claim the Leagues Cup trophy.
