Star Forward Son Scores Initial Hat-Trick in MLS, Leading LAFC to Victory over Real Salt Lake
In a thrilling encounter between Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) and Real Salt Lake, it was Son Heung-Min who stole the show with a hat-trick performance, propelling LAFC into fourth place in the Western Conference.
The action-packed match began in the second minute when Diego Luna came close to scoring for Real Salt Lake, only to miss wide. However, Son capitalised on the opportunity just a minute later, scoring the first goal for LAFC after an interception and a short pass from Timothy Tillman.
LAFC's French goalkeeper, Hugo Lloris, made several first-half saves to keep LAFC's lead at 2-0, showcasing his impressive form since joining the MLS side. Son added to his tally in the 26th minute with a long-range shot that went between defenders and past the keeper, making it 3-0.
Denis Bouanga scored LAFC's fourth goal in the 88th minute, moving ahead of Carlos Vela as the club's all-time leading scorer with his 94th goal in all competitions. This goal was the result of a counter-attack on the right, with Son providing the assist.
Real Salt Lake's Rwan Cruz missed a penalty in the 56th minute, with his shot bouncing off the post and nearly tripping Lloris. Despite this opportunity, Real Salt Lake could not find a way past LAFC's resilient defence, and Xavier Gozo's 76th-minute goal for Real Salt Lake was not enough to salvage the game.
Son completed his hat-trick in the second half, securing a convincing 4-1 victory for LAFC. The South Korean international, who signed with LAFC in August for a reported MLS record $26 million, has now scored five goals in six MLS matches, demonstrating his immediate impact on the team.
With this win, LAFC moved into fourth place in the Western Conference, two points above Seattle Sounders, setting the stage for an exciting race for playoff spots in the MLS.
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