Son Heung-min secures initial MLS weekly accolade
LAFC Star Son Heung-min Named MLS Player of the Week
In a remarkable display of form, Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) superstar Son Heung-min has been named the MLS Player of the Week. This recognition came a day after Son scored his first hat trick in Major League Soccer, making history as the seventh LAFC player ever to achieve this feat.
The hat trick was scored against Real Salt Lake on Matchday 34, in a lopsided away victory in Utah. Son's goals were spread across both halves of the match, with two in the first half and one in the second, resulting in a comprehensive 4-1 win. This victory marked Son's third win in six MLS appearances for LAFC, adding to their current standing of four losses, two draws, and three wins.
As of the current standing, LAFC is in fourth place in the Western Conference with 47 points. A win or a draw in the return fixture against Real Salt Lake can help LAFC clinch their fourth consecutive trip to the MLS Cup Playoffs.
Son has joined Adama Diomande and Carlos Vela as the third player in LAFC history to score five or more goals in their first six games. This impressive run has put him in a strong position to challenge for the club's Golden Boot award.
The MLS Player of the Matchday is selected through voting by members of the North American Soccer Reporters and by fans through Instagram. The recognition was announced on the MLS website on Thursday, following a vote that took place after the match on Wednesday.
LAFC will play a rematch against Real Salt Lake on Sunday at 6 p.m. (local time) or Monday at 10 a.m. (local time). With two matches in hand on the top two clubs in the Western Conference, San Diego FC and Minnesota United FC, LAFC will be aiming to close the gap and secure a higher playoff position.
The MLS Cup Playoffs can be qualified for by the nine highest-ranked teams from each of the Eastern and Western conferences. The top seven teams in each conference earn a first-round bye in the MLS Cup Playoffs, providing an added incentive for LAFC to maintain their current form and climb up the rankings.
This recognition is a testament to Son's talent and his rapid integration into the LAFC squad since joining the club. With his impressive performances, Son is quickly becoming a fan favourite and a key player for LAFC as they strive for success in the MLS.
