Los Angeles FC (LAFC) secured the final berth in the inaugural 32-team FIFA Club World Cup with a dramatic 2-1 extra-time victory over Mexico’s Club América on May 31, 2025, at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. The win propels LAFC into Group D of the tournament, where they will face Chelsea, Flamengo, and Espérance de Tunis.
A Match Decided in Extra Time
The high-stakes play-in match was necessitated by the disqualification of Club León earlier this year due to violations of FIFA’s multi-club ownership regulations. LAFC, runners-up in the 2023 Concacaf Champions Cup, and Club América, the top-ranked team in the FIFA Club World Cup confederation ranking at the conclusion of the 2024 Concacaf Champions Cup, were selected to compete for the vacant spot.
Club América took the lead in the 64th minute with a penalty converted by former LAFC player Brian Rodríguez, following a VAR-reviewed foul. LAFC equalized in the 89th minute when Igor Jesus scored his first goal for the club, heading in a corner kick delivered by Denis Bouanga. Bouanga then secured the victory in the 115th minute of extra time, capitalizing on an assist from Olivier Giroud to send LAFC to the Club World Cup.
Group D Awaits
With this victory, LAFC joins Group D in the FIFA Club World Cup, alongside Chelsea (England), Flamengo (Brazil), and Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia). Their group stage matches are scheduled as follows:June 16: vs. Chelsea at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta
- June 20: vs. Espérance de Tunis at GEODIS Park, Nashville
- June 24: vs. Flamengo at Camping World Stadium, Orlando
The top two teams from each group will advance to the knockout stages of the tournament, which runs from June 14 to July 13 across 12 U.S. cities.
Financial and Competitive Implications
Participation in the Club World Cup comes with significant financial incentives. Each team is guaranteed $9.55 million, with the potential to earn up to $100 million, depending on their progression in the tournament. This financial boost is particularly impactful for clubs like LAFC, providing resources to further develop their squad and infrastructure.
The tournament also offers an opportunity for LAFC to showcase their talent on a global stage, competing against some of the world’s most prestigious clubs. Their inclusion marks a significant achievement for Major League Soccer, which now has three representatives in the competition: LAFC, Inter Miami, and Seattle Sounders.
Looking Ahead
LAFC’s journey to the Club World Cup has been marked by resilience and determination. Their upcoming matches in Group D will test their mettle against top-tier international competition. Success in the tournament could elevate the club’s status and influence within global football.
As the tournament approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how LAFC performs on this prestigious stage, representing both their club and Major League Soccer in the global arena.
