Los Angeles, CA (July 12, 2025) — Denis Bouanga was at the center of nearly every major moment in the first half, powering Los Angeles FC to a 2-0 win over FC Dallas on Saturday night at BMO Stadium. LAFC (9-5-5, 32 points) continued its post-Club World Cup resurgence with a composed and efficient performance, stretching its regular-season unbeaten streak at home against Dallas to 7-0.
With the victory, LAFC improved to 2-1-0 following its disappointing run in the FIFA Club World Cup and climbed back into the Western Conference playoff picture. FC Dallas (5-10-6, 21 points) extended its losing streak to four games, conceding multiple goals in each contest and further slipping in the standings.
Bouanga Shines in All Facets
Bouanga was LAFC’s heartbeat throughout the first 45 minutes, showcasing why he remains one of the most dangerous attackers in MLS. In the 31st minute, Bouanga capitalized on a sloppy Dallas turnover in their defensive third. The Gabon international calmly fed Nathan Ordaz inside the box, and the 20-year-old striker finished clinically for his fifth goal of the season—and second in as many matches.
Just before halftime, Bouanga made another significant impact. As he charged into the penalty area, Dallas defender Shaq Moore made contact, bringing Bouanga down for a clear penalty. The forward stepped up to the spot and converted with authority, notching his 10th goal of the season and giving LAFC a comfortable 2-0 lead heading into the break.
LAFC Controls the Tempo
Steve Cherundolo’s squad dictated the match with 62.1% possession and outshot Dallas 17-11. They continually pressured Dallas’ back line, especially in the first half, where the energy and cohesion of LAFC’s front line overwhelmed the visitors. Bouanga’s link-up play, coupled with Ordaz’s pace and positioning, kept Dallas on its heels throughout the night.
The home side could’ve added more, but FC Dallas goalkeeper Maarten Paes was in fine form despite the scoreline. He finished with seven saves, denying Bouanga and Ordaz on multiple occasions in the second half.
Defensive Stability & Another Clean Sheet
While LAFC’s attack earned the headlines, their defense quietly delivered another solid showing. Veteran goalkeeper Hugo Lloris recorded his eighth clean sheet of the season, needing to make just one save. The back line limited Dallas to few quality chances, frustrating forwards Petar Musa and substitute Luciano Acosta.
Unfortunately, LAFC’s defensive success came with a cost. Center back Aaron Long exited in the 76th minute with a non-contact leg injury and was carted off. His status will be one to watch as LAFC approaches a busy stretch in league play and the upcoming Leagues Cup.
Dallas Continues to Slide
For FC Dallas, Saturday’s result further deepened their recent struggles. The loss marked their fourth straight defeat and continued a defensive skid in which they’ve allowed 11 goals across that span. With Acosta beginning the match on the bench and Musa largely isolated up top, Dallas’ offense lacked spark and failed to test Lloris with any consistent pressure.
Head coach Eric Quill will need to address both ends of the pitch quickly if Dallas hopes to remain in postseason contention. The team’s next stretch of matches could determine the direction of their season.
Looking Ahead
LAFC will look to keep their home form intact as they gear up for their next league fixture before heading into Leagues Cup play. With Bouanga firing on all cylinders and Hugo Lloris anchoring a stout defense, the Black and Gold are trending upward once again.
Meanwhile, FC Dallas returns home in desperate need of a reset. With just five wins through 21 matches, the club faces growing pressure to regroup before the season slips away entirely.
