Bouanga Aims for Record as LAFC Takes on RSL with Son by His Side

Los Angeles FC is heading to Real Salt Lake with a chance to move up in the Western Conference standings, according to MLSsoccer. Denis Bouanga remains a key player, as he is currently tied with Carlos Vela as the club’s all-time leading scorer. He could break that record in Utah.

The Gabon international scored three goals in LAFC’s 4-2 win over the San Jose Earthquakes, bringing his total to 93 goals and matching Vela’s record. Bouanga has also been in good form internationally, scoring another hat trick for Gabon during the break. “I’m hungry for goals,” he stated. “The team helps me a lot and I love the game. It’s an honor to tie Carlos, who is a legend here.”

Bouanga also commended his new teammate Son Heung-min for enhancing the team’s attack. “It’s too easy to play with Sonny. On the field he is amazing, and off the field he is a great person,” Bouanga said. Their collaboration has added a new dynamic to LAFC as they prepare for an important match.

Real Salt Lake comes into this game after a 2-1 victory over Sporting Kansas City. Eighteen-year-old Zavier Gozo impressed with two assists, becoming the youngest player in MLS history to achieve this feat since his teammate, Fidel Barajas, in 2024. With two games in hand, RSL is just one point away from the playoff spots.

RSL has not lost to LAFC in their last three meetings, winning two and drawing one, after a tough stretch where they lost 13 of the previous 15 encounters. At home, they have won five of their last seven games. However, LAFC is currently on a nine-match unbeaten streak in regular-season away games, getting closer to MLS history. Predictions suggest LAFC may win, but Salt Lake’s recent success against them indicates a potentially close match.