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Technically speaking, 2024 was better for LAFC than 2023.
How so? well, LAFC accomplished something in 2024 that it was unable to do in five attempts in 2023; win a trophy. LAFC defeated Sporting Kansas City to win the US Open Cup in late September, then rode the momentum to finish first in the Western Conference one year after a third place finish.
However, LAFC’s playoff run was a major disappointment. First, it needed all three games to eliminate eight-seeded Vancouver in the first round, but were then upset by the fourth-seeded Seattle Sounders in extra time, surprisingly cutting short an expected long playoff run and a juicy potential conference final matchup against the crosstown rival Galaxy.
LAFC heads into the 2025 season with some significant turnover. The team still retains star forward Denis Bouanga, who scored a team-high 20 goals in all competitions for the Black and Gold in 2024, and also returns Timothy Tillman, who established himself in the midfield, and the backline still features Ryan Hollingshead and Aaron Long, and Hugo Lloris returns between the pipes. Gone are striker Kei Kamara and forward Mateusz Bogusz, but LAFC brought in Jeremy Ebobisse to fill the void.
LAFC also will have a full season for striker Oliver Giroud. The legendary French striker joined the team as a designated player midseason, and while he did not find the back net in his appearances last year, LAFC certainly hopes that a preseason of grasping head coach Steve Cherundolo’s system will being forth results, particularly goals. LAFC also just recently filled its second DP spot, as they acquired Turkish winger Cengiz Ünder on loan from Fenerbache. Under will most likely be counted on to fill the void left by Bogusz’ departure to Liga Mx side Cruz Azul.
