Quick Read
- Son Heung-min scored his first MLS hat-trick for LAFC.
- LAFC triumphed 4-1 against Real Salt Lake, with Son’s goals leading the charge.
At 33 years old, Son Heung-min has once again proven why he’s regarded as one of football’s global superstars. This time, the stage was Major League Soccer (MLS), where Son delivered a sensational hat-trick to lead Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) to a commanding 4-1 victory over Real Salt Lake. The match, held in Salt Lake City, Utah, on September 18, was a masterclass in skill, precision, and teamwork—qualities that have defined Son’s illustrious career.
A Start That Set the Tone
From the very first whistle, it was clear that Son was on a mission. Just two minutes into the game, he latched onto a through pass near the halfway line, bursting past two defenders with the kind of speed and control that once made him a Premier League Golden Boot winner. Faced with a one-on-one against the goalkeeper, Son remained calm, slotting the ball into the net with surgical precision. The early goal not only set the tone for the match but also silenced any lingering doubts about Son’s adaptation to the MLS.
“The first goal was thanks to Timmy,” Son humbly noted in a post-match interview, emphasizing the team effort behind his success. But make no mistake—this was a moment of individual brilliance that left fans and critics alike in awe.
Magic in the 16th Minute
Son’s second goal came in the 16th minute and was nothing short of spectacular. Positioned outside the penalty box, he unleashed a right-footed shot that soared like a cannonball into the net. The angle was sharp, the distance challenging, but Son’s precision was impeccable. The stadium erupted in cheers as LAFC extended their lead to 2-0.
Real Salt Lake managed to claw one back in the second half with a stunning overhead kick, narrowing the score to 2-1. For a moment, the momentum seemed to shift. But Son was not done.
The Hat-Trick Sealed in Style
In the 36th minute of the second half, during a counterattack, Son showcased his chemistry with teammate Denis Bouanga. Sprinting down the right flank, Bouanga had the option to take the shot himself but instead chose to pass to Son, who was perfectly positioned on the left. With a simple yet elegant touch, Son completed his hat-trick, securing the victory for LAFC. The partnership between Son and Bouanga is already being hailed as one of the most dynamic in the league.
“The third goal was all Bouanga,” Son said, flashing his signature smile. “It wouldn’t have been possible without my teammates.” This humility, combined with his undeniable talent, has endeared Son to fans worldwide.
A Superstar’s Impact
Son was substituted out in the 41st minute of the second half to a standing ovation from the crowd. Just two minutes later, Bouanga added another goal, sealing a 4-1 triumph for LAFC. The victory was a testament not just to Son’s individual brilliance but also to the team’s cohesion and resilience.
Social media exploded with reactions following the match. Comments like “SON has taken over MLS” and “A superstar shining with his teammates” flooded platforms, reflecting the widespread admiration for Son’s performance. In just two months since joining MLS, Son has not only elevated his team but also brought a new level of excitement to the league.
His ticket-selling power, combined with his on-field exploits, has turned LAFC into a formidable contender as the playoffs approach. Fans are now asking: Can Son dominate MLS the way he did in the English Premier League? If his performance against Real Salt Lake is any indication, the answer is a resounding yes.
With his first MLS hat-trick, Son Heung-min has silenced doubters and set the stage for what could be a transformative chapter in his career. His journey in MLS is just beginning, but the signs point to a legacy that could rival his accomplishments in Europe.