LAFC Struggles in Brutal Cold as Colorado Rapids Take First-Leg Victory in Concacaf Champions Cup

In a match played under frigid conditions, with single-digit temperatures turning players’ beards to ice, the Colorado Rapids secured a 2-1 victory over LAFC in the first leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup opening-round matchup. Despite the brutal cold at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, both teams did as much as they they could to give the very few fans present a reason to believe they should have not stayed home rather than endure one of the lowest temperatures on record for an outside soccer game in the State.

First Half: A Defensive Chess Match in the Freezing Cold

The opening 45 minutes were marked by tight defensive structures and few scoring chances. Both teams struggled to generate clear opportunities, with possession evenly split. On LAFC's side, Olivier Giroud and Denis Bouanga tried to work on some chemistry passes but the frigid conditions made fluid play difficult, leading to a slow, tactical battle rather than an open, attacking affair. Colorado on the other hands, found a little bit of spaces between defenders Eddie Segura and Ryan Hollingshead. But the experienced Hugo Lloris was ready for the shot.

Second Half: Rapids Take Over

The second half saw a significant momentum shift as Colorado took control of possession, holding nearly 75-80% of the ball for the first 30 minutes. This pressure led to a key moment early in the half when LAFC’s Ryan Hollingshead committed a reckless tackle inside the box, resulting in a penalty. Jorge Mihailović stepped up and confidently converted from the spot, putting Colorado up 1-0.

With the Rapids dominating possession and tempo, LAFC struggled to regain control. Then, in the 65th minute, Mihailović struck again—this time with a stunning free kick from well beyond the penalty area, curling the ball over Hugo Lloris and into the back of the net. The 2-0 lead had the home crowd in full voice, and at that point, LAFC seemed in serious trouble.

LAFC Pulls One Back, Keeps Series Alive

Despite being on the back foot for most of the second half, LAFC found a lifeline in the 72nd minute. Captain Aaron Long put enough deflection on the ball, following good cross from Palencia, misdirecting a header away from Zach Steffen to make it 2-1.

That crucial away goal keeps LAFC within striking distance heading into the second leg at BMO Stadium next week.

What’s Next? LAFC Faces Must-Win Situation in Second Leg

The Concacaf Champions Cup is a 180-minute battle, and while LAFC will return home trailing, the task is still manageable. To advance, they will need:

• A win by at least two goals to qualify outright.

• A one-goal win to force extra time and possibly penalties.

With MLS Cup champions Columbus Crew waiting in the next round, LAFC must capitalize on home-field advantage and deliver a strong performance to avoid an early exit from the competition.

Final Score: Colorado Rapids 2-1 LAFC

Goals:

• COL – Jorge Mihailović (PK, 48’)

• COL – Jorge Mihailović (FK, 79’)

• LAFC – Aaron Long (85’)

With the cold behind them, LAFC faces a must-win showdown in Los Angeles, where they’ll look to turn the tide and keep their Champions Cup hopes alive. But first, the team faces Minnesota during the Home Opener between LAFC and Minnesota United.