LAFC Advances in Concacaf Champions Cup, But Olivier Giroud’s Struggles Raise Concerns

LAFC secured a berth in the Concacaf Champions Cup Quarterfinals on Tuesday night, closing out a 4-2 aggregate victory over the Columbus Crew at Lower.com Field. Holding a commanding 3-0 lead from the first leg, the Black & Gold found themselves under pressure after the hosts found two first half goals to cut the overall deficit to just one goal. A dramatic late goal from Denis Bouanga would seal the series and send the Black and Gold from California through.

Next, LAFC will face the winner of Inter Miami vs. Cavalier FC, with Lionel Messi’s Miami currently leading that series 2-0 on aggregate. If Miami advances, it would set up a high-profile showdown between Messi and LAFC in the next round.

LAFC Endures Columbus Comeback Before Bouanga’s Heroics

Columbus wasted no time applying pressure, cutting into LAFC’s lead in the 10th minute. Former LAFC forward Diego Rossi delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Jacen Russell-Rowe connected on a volley past Hugo Lloris to make it 1-0.

Just before halftime, the Crew doubled their lead. Rossi stepped up to convert a penalty in the 45th minute, beating Lloris and giving Columbus hope of a historic comeback.

Despite being under siege for much of the night—facing 22 total shots—Lloris stood tall. The veteran French goalkeeper made five crucial saves, including a spectacular one-handed stop in the 66th minute to deny Max Arfsten from close range.

As Columbus pushed desperately for an equalizer in stoppage time, goalkeeper Patrick Schulte ventured forward for a late corner. The gamble proved costly. Cengiz Ünder, making his LAFC debut, intercepted a loose ball near midfield and launched a counterattack. With Columbus scrambling to recover, Ünder found Bouanga, who slotted home in the 96th minute, securing LAFC’s place in the quarterfinals.

Giroud’s Struggles Continue – Cause for Concern?

While LAFC celebrated its victory, Olivier Giroud’s form remains a growing concern. The French striker, brought on as a second-half substitute, once again failed to make an impact, continuing a frustrating start to his MLS career.

A player of Giroud’s pedigree—World Cup winner, Champions League veteran—was expected to be a game-changer for LAFC. Instead, he has struggled to adapt to Major League Soccer’s pace and physicality, raising questions about his long-term fit in the league.

In many top leagues, high-profile signings who fail to produce often face quick exits, as seen with James Rodríguez at São Paulo and various European stars who failed to adapt to new environments. But in MLS, where roster rules and contracts differ significantly, moving on from a marquee player like Giroud may not be so simple.

If his struggles continue, LAFC will need to decide whether to persist with the Frenchman or explore other attacking options. With tougher challenges ahead, the club cannot afford to carry a non-productive designated player in its quest for trophies, even if that means having a lower likelihood of landing Antoine Griezmann in the near future.

What’s Next for LAFC?

The Black & Gold now shift their focus back to MLS regular season play, hosting Austin FC at BMO Stadium on Saturday, March 15. Kickoff is set for 12:45 p.m. PT, with live coverage on MLS Season Pass.

As LAFC eyes another deep Concacaf run, all attention will be on whether Giroud can turn his form around—and if a showdown with Lionel Messi awaits in the quarterfinals.