LAFC Thwarts Austin FC’s Comeback to Capture Game 1 Victory

Los Angeles FC edged Austin FC 2-1 in a dramatic Game 1 of their Audi MLS Cup Playoffs Round One Best-of-3 series at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. The decisive moment came late, as homegrown forward Nathan Ordaz capitalized on a sharp counterattack to secure victory for the Black & Gold, putting LAFC one win away from advancing.

The opening half saw LAFC take the lead through an unfortunate own goal by Austin defender Brendan Hines-Ike, who deflected a low cross from Ryan Hollingshead into his own net. Despite this setback, Austin FC regrouped after halftime, and in the 63rd minute, Jon Gallagher—assisted by Owen Wolff and Myrto Uzuni—found the back of the net to level the score.

With the match finely balanced at 1-1 entering the final stretch, LAFC’s dynamic duo of Son Heung-Min and Denis Bouanga—who have combined for 19 of LAFC’s last 22 goals heading into the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs—proved decisive yet again, even without scoring themselves. Their movement and link-up play drew the Austin defense out of position, culminating in Bouanga’s deflected shot falling perfectly for Ordaz, who tapped in the winner in the 79th minute. The goal stood after a tense moment of uncertainty about a potential offside, allowing LAFC to avoid a penalty shootout and seize a crucial home victory.

“Even without finishing tonight, Son and Bouanga created a lot of dangerous moments and attracted so much attention that it opened up space for others,” LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo said post-match, highlighting the pair’s influence. Ordaz, who recently signed a contract extension, called it the most important goal of his young career, emphasizing the significance of contributing in the playoffs.

Historically, Austin FC had the upper hand in the regular season, completing a league double over LAFC with 1-0 wins both home and away. However, LAFC now holds the advantage in this postseason matchup and can clinch the series in Game 2, which will take place at Q2 Stadium in Austin on Sunday night. If the Black & Gold advance, this win may be the last home game for Cherundolo, who is set to return to Germany after the season.

Austin FC will look to respond strongly at home, hoping to force a decisive third game and keep their playoff hopes alive. The match is set for Sunday, November 2, at 7:30 p.m. CT, broadcast on MLS Season Pass for Apple TV subscribers and local radio. For more on the playoff series and team updates, follow Austin FC on Twitter and visit MLSsoccer.com.