LAFC Advances in Concacaf Champions Cup with Gritty 1-0 Win Over Colorado

LAFC secured its spot in the Round of 16 of the Concacaf Champions Cup with a tense 1-0 victory over the Colorado Rapids at BMO Stadium.

The Black & Gold needed a win after falling 2-1 in the first leg, and thanks to the away goal tiebreaker, they did just enough to move on.

A Tactical Battle in the First Half

The opening 45 minutes were a war of attrition, with neither side able to break through. LAFC controlled slightly more possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances.

Olivier Giroud, still an enigma in this attack, had another quiet night, touching the ball just 17 times in 70 minutes and failing to register a shot. His role in Steve Cherundolo’s system remains uncertain, and questions about his fit in the team are growing.

Venezuelan Spark

The breakthrough for LAFC came early in the second half, courtesy of two unexpected names. Young Venezuelan winger David Martínez delivered a precise cross into the box, where Marky Delgado—formerly of LA Galaxy—slotted it home.

His celebration, kissing the LAFC badge, sent a clear message about where his loyalties now lie, raising questions about the trade that sent Delgado across town for a pile of imaginary Garber-cash (GAM). That goal gave LAFC the lead on the night and, crucially, the aggregate edge thanks to their away goal in Colorado.

Holding the Line

Colorado pushed forward in search of an equalizer but lacked the firepower to truly threaten Hugo Lloris’ goal. LAFC’s defense remained disciplined, and as the minutes ticked away, the Rapids ran out of ideas.

The final whistle, after a couple interesting stoppage moments from the referee, sets up a clash with the Columbus Crew, a team that Steve Cherundolo and his team knows really well.

What’s Next for LAFC?

LAFC now turns its focus to NYCFC this weekend in league play, before a two-legged battle against the reigning Leagues Cup champions, Columbus Crew. Meanwhile the Black & Gold is still searching for their best attacking rhythm, they’ll need to find answers quickly against one of the league’s most balanced teams.