Steve Cherundolo’s side will make their tournament debut on June 16 against Chelsea.
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LAFC is in Group D alongside Chelsea, Flamengo, and Espérance de TunisBouanga has scored 80 goals in 127 appearances for the clubHe joined the MLS side in 2022Get the MLS Season Pass today!Stream games nowGetty Images SportWHAT HAPPENED?
With just one day left before the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup kicks off, LAFC star forward Denis Bouanga is still riding the emotional high of the goal that booked his team’s place in the tournament. The Gabon international delivered the decisive strike in extra time during the playoff match that eliminated Club América and secured LAFC's spot in the competition, replacing León.
Speaking with TNT Sports, Bouanga described the goal as the most important of his career – not just for what it meant in terms of qualification, but for the unforgettable emotions it sparked.
“It was a magical moment and the most emotional goal of my life. The moment the ball hit the net, I got goosebumps. Seeing the stadium erupt, my teammates celebrate, and my family cheering – there’s nothing like it," he said. "Coming from behind to tie it up and then scoring the winner, that’s something I’ll never forget."
AdvertisementGetty Images SportTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Bouanga and LAFC are gearing up for a demanding group stage, where they’ll take on Chelsea, the current UEFA Conference League champions, as well as Espérance de Tunis and Flamengo, all battling for a place in the Round of 16.
Steve Cherundolo’s team arrives at the tournament after a dramatic win over Club América – a match in which LAFC came in as underdogs. Regardless of what happens in the competition, the club now finds itself with an opportunity that would have seemed out of reach just months ago.
“Personally, I’m extremely proud to be part of this great tournament that brings together the 32 best clubs in the world. It felt like a final – we won it, and that’s something truly special for Los Angeles FC,” said the Gabonese striker.
Getty Images SportDID YOU KNOW?
Bouanga joined LAFC in 2022 from Saint-Étienne for a reported $5 million transfer fee. Since then, the striker has become a central figure for the club, amassing 80 goals and 36 assists in 127 appearances, making LAFC the team with which he’s played the most matches in his professional career.
Before coming to MLS, Bouanga had stints with several French Ligue 1 sides, including Saint-Étienne (110 appearances), Lorient (47), and Nîmes (38). During his time in Los Angeles, he has helped the club win the Supporters’ Shield, the MLS Cup, and the U.S. Open Cup.
Getty Images SportWHAT NEXT FOR LOS ANGELES FC?
LAFC will face Chelsea on June 16, Espérance de Tunis on June 20, and Flamengo on June 24. These matches make up their 2025 FIFA Club World Cup group stage schedule.
