Four years after joining MLS, Los Angeles FC qualified for the North American championship final on Sunday for the first time in their history, easily eliminating Austin in the Western Conference final (3-0). Colombian Cristian Arango put LAFC on the right track in the first half (29th), headed for a corner by Mexican star Carlos Vela.
LAFC waiting to know their future opponent
To dominate, the Californian team then wasted several opportunities, with the decisive duo in the first period. But in the 62nd minute, his relentless pressure finally paid off. Another corner from Vela creates confusion in the penalty area and the Argentine Maxi Urruti, just entered in place of Austin, is unable to control his header, which hits the target. Ten minutes from the end, Ghanaian winger Kwadwo Opoku gave more substance to the score, with a low shot.
Teammates of Denis Bouanga and Gareth Bale will face defending champions New York City FC or Philadelphia Union next Saturday, still in their lair at Banc of California Stadium. The identity of their future opponent will be known overnight from Sunday to Monday.
