LAFC returned to action in convincing fashion Sunday afternoon, defeating the El Salvador Men’s National Team 3-0 in an international friendly at BMO Stadium. The Black & Gold controlled the contest from the opening minutes, using their organization, pressure and attacking quality to earn a comfortable result in front of a lively Los Angeles crowd.
Mark Delgado gave LAFC an ideal start in the fourth minute. Eddie Segura found the midfielder near the top of the penalty area, and Delgado directed a composed right-footed finish inside the post before the Salvadoran goalkeeper could reach it.
The early breakthrough allowed LAFC to settle into the match and dictate its tempo. El Salvador attempted to withstand the hosts’ pressure and find opportunities in transition, but LAFC remained compact defensively while consistently moving the ball into dangerous positions.
Jeremy Ebobisse doubled the advantage shortly before halftime. Denis Bouanga delivered a cross from the left side, and Ebobisse met it with a volley from the center of the box to give LAFC a 2-0 lead heading into the break.
Bouanga’s involvement provided another reminder of the problems his pace and direct play can create for opposing defenses. Even without finding the net himself, the forward played an important role in stretching El Salvador’s back line and creating openings for his teammates.
LAFC added its third goal in the 60th minute. After Bouanga’s initial shot was stopped, Ryan Hollingshead reacted first to the rebound and converted from close range, effectively putting the friendly beyond El Salvador’s reach.
Both teams used the second half to make substitutions, evaluate different combinations and distribute minutes. LAFC maintained control despite the changes, while El Salvador struggled to generate the sustained attacking pressure needed to threaten a comeback.
The match also carried significance beyond the result because of Southern California’s large Salvadoran community. Supporters of both teams helped create an energetic atmosphere at BMO Stadium, while LAFC homegrown forward and El Salvador international Nathan Ordaz represented a direct connection between the club and La Selecta.
For LAFC, the victory provided a productive competitive test during the MLS pause for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Black & Gold will return to league action against the LA Galaxy on Friday, July 17, carrying renewed sharpness and confidence into the latest edition of their Los Angeles rivalry.
