손흥민이 해냈다! 2AS로 톨루카전 승리 견인

Son Heung-min Delivers Double Assists in LAFC Victory

Son Heung-min played a pivotal role in securing Los Angeles FC’s triumph. The team claimed a 2-1 victory against Toluca FC during the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinal at BMO Field in Los Angeles, California.

Playing the entire match, Son contributed two assists and was directly involved in both of his team’s scoring opportunities. His most crucial moment came during stoppage time when the match was tied 1-1. From a free kick position on the left flank, he delivered a precise right-footed cross that set up teammate Nkosi Tafari for the winning goal.

First Half Struggles

LAFC faced difficulties in the opening period, surrendering possession to Toluca. Although the opposition’s attacks lacked sharpness, LAFC struggled to establish control. Son received limited service in the attacking third. He attempted a long-range effort from outside the box around the 22nd minute, but the shot missed the target.

The home side created their first dangerous chance near the 29-minute mark when Timothy Tillman volleyed a cross from the right, though it sailed wide. Toluca had a golden opportunity just before halftime when a corner kick led to a close-range header, but LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris made an outstanding save, followed by another crucial block moments later.

Second Half Breakthrough

LAFC came out with renewed energy after the break. Jacob Shaffelburg and Sergi Palencia delivered threatening crosses early in the half. The breakthrough arrived in the 51st minute when Palencia’s cross from the right reached Son, who laid it off to Tillman. The midfielder controlled with his chest, took a touch, and fired home with his right foot.

Two minutes later, LAFC thought they had doubled their lead through Shaffelburg, but VAR ruled the goal offside during the build-up. This decision shifted momentum back toward the visitors.

Toluca equalized in the 73rd minute when Angulo received a pass and struck from the left side of the arc with his right foot.

Dramatic Winner

Both teams made attacking substitutions late in the match. Toluca brought on national team striker Alexis Vega, while LAFC introduced fresh legs with Eustaquio and Ebosiele.

LAFC continued pressing for the winner. In the 88th minute, Son threaded a brilliant through ball forward, though it was flagged offside. Their persistence paid off when Shaffelburg was fouled on the left wing in the closing minutes, earning a free kick in a dangerous position.

In the first minute of stoppage time, Son stepped up and delivered a magical right-footed set piece that found Tafari, securing all three points for the home side heading into the second leg.