LAFC routs Loudon to advance in US Open Cup

Whether it scoring or assisting, Denis Bouanga continues to do it well for LAFC.

Bouanga was again the factor for LAFC in its Round of 16 match of the US Open Cup against Loudoun United on Tuesday night. Bouanga scored the opening goal, then assisted on two more, and LAFC easily cruised into the quarterfinals with a 3-0 win at BMO Stadium.

“Most importantly, advanced in the tournament,” said LAFC assistant coach Ante Razov, who filled in for head coach Steve Cherundolo for the match. “Some decent sequences. We’re always trying to improve. Getting ready for another big week coming up.”

It didn’t take long for LAFC to get going. LAFC scored eight minutes into the match, as Denis Bouanga sent a left-footed cross into the penalty area, Timothy Tillman charged in and took the shot, but it was blocked. Ilie Sanchez however kept the play alive, as he got the ball, passed to Cristian Olivera on his right, Olivera then sent a ball into the six-yard box that was likely intended for Tomas Angel, the ball missed Angel, but Bouanga was at the right place at the right time, as he tapped the ball into the open net at the near post.

LAFC wrapped up the match in the second half. LAFC doubled its lead in the 52nd minute, as Denis Bouanga led LAFC on a counter, Bouanga dribbled all the way inside Loudon’s half towards the penalty area, Bouanga then played Olivera into the penalty area and Olivera blasted a left-footed shot past keeper Dane Jacomen into the back net. Eight minutes later, Angel sealed he win, as he was sprung into the penalty area by Bouanga, Angel one-timed a left-footed shot past Jacomen far post.

“It was the debut at home I imagined,” said Angel. “Obviously, I haven’t played in probably 9 or 10 fixtures. It was a day that I was hoping to get, the opportunity, and that was why I was training hard and doing all of the working.”

LAFC’s next opponent in the tournament will be New Mexico United at home, but that won’t be until July 10. Until then, LAFC jumps back into MLS play, as they head east to face Atlanta United.