Los Angeles FC (LAFC) have dramatically clinched a spot in the inaugural expanded FIFA Club World Cup, beating Club América 2-1 in extra time of a thrilling play-off at BMO Stadium.
The victory places LAFC in a challenging Group D alongside Chelsea, Flamengo, and Esperance Sportive de Tunis.
Gabon international Denis Bouanga scored the decisive goal five minutes from the end of extra time, assisted by veteran forward Olivier Giroud, after the match finished 1-1 in regular time.
The play-off came about after Mexican side Club León was expelled from the tournament due to multi-club ownership.
Club América had initially led through a Brian Rodriguez penalty in the 64th minute, but Igor Jesus equalized for LAFC in the 89th minute, forcing extra time.
Giroud’s introduction in the 74th minute proved pivotal, setting up Bouanga’s winner. LAFC will now face Chelsea in their opening Group D fixture in Atlanta on June 16th.
