LA FC played out a tense 0-0 draw against Colorado Rapids in the MLS on October 23 at BMO Stadium, extending their winless run to three matches with one draw and two losses.
MLS Standings Tighten
Seattle Sounders lead the Western Conference with 24 points, while LA FC trails in second place on 17 points, seven points adrift. The result highlights mounting pressure as both teams vie for supremacy.
Son Heung-min’s Ongoing Struggle
Tottenham Hotspur’s Son Heung-min continues to grapple with a frustrating goal drought, failing to score in eight straight Premier League games. Despite chances, including a header cleared off the line, he has been unable to break his run. Tottenham’s form has faltered this season, contributing to their inconsistent results.
LA FC coach Steve Cherundolo voiced concerns over Son’s form, drawing parallels to his own squad’s challenges. “The LAFC team faces a similar situation,” Cherundolo stated. “Up to the 24th round, we had the most games at eight, but now at the 42nd round, it’s 13. It’s a healthy situation in terms of health.”
He emphasized player management: “We must carefully handle these players. Son has a reason for it too. In the 70th minute, he showed signs of fatigue until the 75th. We need to check them semi-regularly.”
Focus on Forward Rest
Cherundolo advocated resting forwards: “Forwards sometimes need to go to the bench. Even in the Nations League group stage, we’re focusing more there now.” He added, “After the group stage, Minnesota awaits. This lineup will face it. It’s not just about the league. We must be better until the World Cup playoffs.”
Explaining Son’s drought further, the coach noted, “It’s difficult to explain Son’s goal drought alone. He’s not just struggling; the forward Bouanga is too. Bouanga has four goals this season.”
Bouanga’s Role in LA FC Attack
Denis Bouanga, LA FC’s key forward, has netted four goals across all competitions this season, a tally that pales against his previous 32-goal campaign. Cherundolo praised their partnership: “This group needs to look at the forwards. Bouanga is anxious to score.”
“We paired Bouanga with Son nine times to create chances. It’s good they’re together more. Forwards need to know better. Touches give them confidence. Now, even different touches give him confidence,” he said.
The coach remained optimistic: “I won’t reveal specific player names, but former star players who were good last season also worry about starts. It’s best for Son and Bouanga too.” He stressed squad depth: “Son wants goals, but his current fitness level is exactly right. We plan to position Son and Bouanga together maximally. Without team structure, we must build it.”
Broader Implications
Son’s form remains pivotal for Tottenham, where an eight-game league drought ranks among the longest in MLS contexts but underscores Premier League pressures. LA FC’s draw reflects similar frustrations, with no shots on target in the second half and limited creativity.
Cherundolo’s insights highlight the need for rotation amid packed schedules, including CONCACAF Champions Cup commitments. Both players and teams push through challenges toward season-defining moments.
