Mateusz Bogusz scored just 35 seconds into the game, and Ilie Sánchez added another goal in stoppage time, leading Los Angeles FC to a 2-1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps on Sunday night.
Bogusz’s goal was his career-high 15th this season for LAFC (18-8-7), assisted by David Martínez and Olivier Giroud. Martínez recorded his fourth assist in his 16th game, while Giroud got his third in just his ninth match.
Vancouver (13-12-8) equalized in the 62nd minute when Sebastian Berhalter scored from a free kick. It was his second goal of the season and the fourth of his career. The free kick was awarded after LAFC midfielder Sergi Palencia committed a handball foul.
Sánchez scored in the third minute of stoppage time, marking his first goal of the season and the 10th of his career. Kei Kamara provided his fifth assist of the season.
Hugo Lloris, who had two clean sheets in previous matches, made three saves for LAFC. Yohei Takaoka saved two shots for the Whitecaps.
LAFC is now just three points behind the Los Angeles Galaxy in the fight for the top spot in the Western Conference and is guaranteed to finish no lower than second. Earlier this season, LAFC won 3-0 at home against the Whitecaps and leads their all-time series 10-6-4.
Vancouver, currently ranked No. 8 in the West, has not won in its last six matches, with a record of 0-4-2.
LAFC will host the San Jose Earthquakes next Saturday for Decision Day, while the Whitecaps will visit Real Salt Lake to wrap up the regular season.
