Bouanga’s Stunning Hat Trick Lifts LAFC Over Real Salt Lake

Bouanga’s Hat Trick Sparks LAFC’s Playoff Run

On a crisp September evening at BMO Stadium, Denis Bouanga etched his name deeper into Major League Soccer’s history books. The Los Angeles FC forward delivered a masterclass performance, netting three goals—his second hat trick in just three games—to guide LAFC to a resounding 4-1 win over Real Salt Lake.

The match was more than just another victory for the Black & Gold. It was a statement of intent. With this result, LAFC clinched a coveted spot in the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs, joining the league’s elite in the race for championship glory. The significance of Bouanga’s performance extended far beyond the scoreline; it cemented his place among the league’s most prolific scorers and underscored the team’s rising momentum as autumn approaches.

Early Drama: Salt Lake’s Surprise and LAFC’s Response

The game began with Salt Lake showing early promise. Brayan Vera stunned the home crowd in the 14th minute, unleashing a left-footed rocket from outside the box that sailed beneath the crossbar and into the net. It was Vera’s first goal of the season and a reminder that Real Salt Lake, despite recent struggles, can strike with precision when given space.

But LAFC’s response was swift and relentless. Bouanga, who has been unstoppable in recent weeks, equalized in first-half stoppage time. Assisted by Son Heung-min, Bouanga found the back of the net, igniting the stadium and swinging momentum in LAFC’s favor. Just minutes later, Son added his own flair, bouncing a shot off the near post and in to give LAFC a 2-1 lead at the break.

Bouanga’s Record-Breaking Season: The Numbers Behind the Magic

Denis Bouanga’s performance wasn’t just dazzling—it was historic. The 30-year-old has now scored in four consecutive games, bringing his season tally to 22 goals. That figure ties him with Lionel Messi for the most goals in MLS this season, an achievement that places Bouanga at the summit of American soccer’s scoring charts.

What’s more, Bouanga is the first player in MLS history to notch at least 20 goals in three consecutive seasons. His hat trick against Salt Lake marked his fourth career regular-season hat trick with LAFC, surpassing club legend Carlos Vela for the most in franchise history. The consistency, the hunger, the flair—Bouanga has become the heartbeat of LAFC’s attacking machine.

“Bouanga is unstoppable right now,” noted Fox Sports analysts, “and his chemistry with Son Heung-min is electric.”

Son Heung-min’s Rising Influence: Goals, Assists, and Leadership

While Bouanga’s finishing stole the headlines, Son Heung-min quietly orchestrated LAFC’s attack, contributing a goal and two assists. Since joining the club, Son has adapted swiftly to MLS, and his recent run of form—seven goal contributions in the last three matches—has given LAFC a new dimension.

Son’s ability to read the game, create space, and deliver incisive passes has elevated LAFC’s offense. His partnership with Bouanga has become one of the most potent in the league, with defenders struggling to contain their movement and interplay.

As Hindustan Times reported, Son’s first MLS hat trick came just days earlier in a road win against Salt Lake, underscoring his rapid impact on American soccer.

Salt Lake’s Struggles Continue

For Real Salt Lake, the defeat was a painful continuation of a downward spiral. The team has now lost five of its last six matches, slipping further behind in the playoff race. Despite flashes of attacking intent—like Vera’s early goal and several dangerous runs from Rwan Cruz and Zavier Gozo—Salt Lake could not match LAFC’s intensity or execution.

Salt Lake’s defense wilted under sustained pressure, conceding three goals in the second half. Substitutions and tactical adjustments made little difference, as Bouanga and Son continued to carve open opportunities with ease. The visitors will need to regroup quickly if they hope to salvage their postseason ambitions.

Playoff Implications and Looking Ahead

With this victory, LAFC reached 50 points, securing their place in the playoffs and solidifying their position as one of the Western Conference’s top contenders. Minnesota sits just ahead with 54 points, while Seattle trails with 45—making the final stretch of the season a tantalizing battle for playoff seeding.

For LAFC, the win was about more than statistics. It was about rhythm, belief, and the sense that this squad is peaking at the right moment. Bouanga’s record-breaking consistency, Son’s creative spark, and the team’s collective resilience have set the stage for a deep playoff run.

As the regular season winds down, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if LAFC can transform this momentum into silverware. The club’s history is full of thrilling highs and heartbreaking lows, but with Bouanga and Son leading the charge, there’s a growing sense that something special is brewing in Los Angeles.

Bouanga’s hat trick wasn’t just another highlight—it was the culmination of months of hard work, chemistry, and individual brilliance. As LAFC clinches their playoff spot, the rest of MLS must take notice: this team is hungry, united, and armed with the league’s most dynamic duo. The road to the MLS Cup just got a lot more interesting.