LAFC : No Vela, No Problem

Los Angeles, CA — In a sold-out match, LAFC embarked on a new era sans Carlos Vela, a stalwart since the team’s inception. Vela’s departure, owing to contractual disagreements, leaves him a free agent. Under sunny skies and 70-degree weather, LAFC welcomed their rivals, the Seattle Sounders, setting a record with their 7th consecutive opening match win.

Less than three minutes into his Major League Soccer debut, Hugo Lloris was tested with a point-blank save, following a teammate’s error that left him exposed. The World Cup-winning French goalkeeper displayed the same poise that marked an impressive first day in his new role.

Photo Credit: Eddie Don Miguel
IG: @Eddiej_pics

Lloris, making seven saves, led Los Angeles FC to a 2-1 victory over the Seattle Sounders on Saturday. Having moved stateside last December after 11 1/2 seasons with Tottenham, including a decade as their starting goalkeeper, the 37-year-old brings a wealth of experience. With his wife and three children watching from the stands, Lloris showcased the skill, steadiness, and leadership expected from LAFC’s most accomplished goalkeeper signing to date.

“The first game is always special,” Lloris said. “Regardless of your experience or level, I felt it today. I felt good, even though there are aspects of my game I need to work on. I try to convey my experience, my confidence, and help the team.”

Timothy Tillman and Mateusz Bogusz found the net for LAFC, initiating their quest for a third consecutive MLS Cup Final appearance after clinching the league’s postseason title in 2022 and making it to the Final again last season. LAFC has won its season opener in all seven seasons of its existence.

Photo Credit: Eddie Don Miguel
IG: @Eddiej_pics

Lloris’s first save came in the third minute, denying Jordan Morris’ close-range shot after a mistake by LAFC’s Jesús David Murillo. Despite immediate pressure, Lloris didn’t concede from open play.

“I think we could not start in a better way,” Lloris said. “The most important thing was to get the three points. We’re still working on our fitness level, and we suffered in the last 20 minutes, but with the help of the crowd, we were able to win.”

Cool under pressure, Lloris also showcased impressive distribution, enhancing LAFC’s attack with long passes to his forwards. While still adjusting to his teammates’ tendencies and settling into suburban life in Encino, Lloris is already making a significant impact on LAFC’s season plans.

“His first game was very clean,” LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo said. “Important saves. Just a steady rock for us. A sense of security when he’s there. He’s drawing back on years and years of experience playing at a high level. His decision-making on the ball is going to make us a lot better.”

Pedro De La Vega scored for Seattle in the 72nd minute from a penalty, but Seattle fell to their rivals, who ended their 2023 season in the Western Conference final.

Andrew Thomas made his MLS debut in goal for Seattle.

Tillman put LAFC ahead in the 45th minute with a powerful header from Omar Campos’ cross, while Bogusz doubled LAFC’s lead in the 55th minute with a stunning, curling shot into the top corner.

Photo Credit: Eddie Don Miguel
IG: @Eddiej_pics

Seattle was awarded a penalty minutes after Aaron Long and Morris tangled at the top of the LAFC box, resulting in a belated yellow card for Long. De La Vega converted the penalty, but LAFC held on for the win. LAFC will hit the road next week to face Real Salt Lake in pursuit of their first away victory of the season.