Fans show their support as Son Heung-Min makes his debut for LAFC against Chicago Fire.
Son Heung-Min made a notable debut for LAFC, contributing to a 2-2 draw against the Chicago Fire. Coming off the bench, he drew a penalty that helped secure a point for his team. Despite the draw, both teams remain in contention for playoff spots in the MLS, with fans excited about Son’s potential impact in future matches.
Bridgeview, Illinois – Son Heung-Min made a significant impact in his debut for LAFC on Saturday evening, helping the team secure a 2-2 draw against the Chicago Fire at SeatGeek Stadium. The match, attended by a sold-out crowd of 19,831, was the South Korean star’s first appearance since being unveiled just three days prior to the game.
Coming off the bench in the 61st minute, Son quickly proved his value by drawing a crucial penalty kick in the 77th minute. Chicago defender Carlos Terán fouled him in the penalty area, allowing LAFC’s Denis Bouanga to step up and convert the penalty, leveling the match at 2-2. This penalty marked Bouanga’s 14th goal of the season.
Prior to Son’s game-changing contribution, LAFC found themselves trailing 2-1. Chicago’s Jonathan Bamba had scored the game’s second goal for the Fire in the 70th minute, giving Chicago the lead after Ryan Hollingshead had equalized for LAFC with a goal in the 19th minute. Hollingshead’s goal was assisted by David Martínez.
LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo recognized Son’s immediate effect on the team’s performance. His ability to infuse energy into the squad alongside fellow substitute Bouanga was noted as essential during a match that Cherundolo described as exciting for fans.
Despite only having a few training sessions with the team, Son expressed pleasure at participating in the match, indicating his eagerness to get on the field. The atmosphere at SeatGeek Stadium was electric, with many fans proudly wearing jerseys from South Korea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Bayer 04 Leverkusen, celebrating Son’s presence in the Major League Soccer (MLS).
With this draw, LAFC remains in sixth place in the Western Conference as they continue their pursuit of a spot in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. The team now looks forward to their next match against the New England Revolution as they aim to maintain their competitive edge in the league.
On the other side, the Chicago Fire are also vying for a playoff spot, their first since 2017. The draw kept them in the thick of the playoff race, though they needed a win to improve their standing. In terms of goalkeeping, Chicago’s Chris Brady made four saves, while LAFC’s Hugo Lloris had one save during the match.
The match dually benefited both teams, allowing them to split the points and continue their respective campaigns in the MLS this season. With Son Heung-Min’s involvement, LAFC fans can look forward to exciting matches ahead.
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