Austin vs Los Angeles FC Match Recap - Nov 3, 2025

In a decisive Round of 16 clash at Q2 Stadium, Los Angeles FC showcased their dominance with a commanding 4-1 victory over Austin FC on November 3, 2025. The match was a stark reminder of the contrasting fortunes both teams have faced in recent weeks, as LA continued their pursuit of glory while Austin struggled to find their footing.

The evening began with an electric atmosphere, but it was Heung-Min Son who quickly silenced the home crowd. In just the 21st minute, he found the back of the net, setting the tone for what would be a challenging night for Austin. Just four minutes later, Denis Bouanga doubled LA's lead with another goal that left Austin reeling. Bouanga wasn't done yet; he struck again just before halftime in the 44th minute, completing a first-half hat trick that put Los Angeles firmly in control at 3-0.

Austin managed to find a glimmer of hope when they were awarded a penalty kick deep into stoppage time of the first half. Daniel Pereira stepped up and converted successfully in the 45+6 minute, giving his team something to build upon as they headed into halftime trailing 3-1.

However, any momentum gained by Austin was quickly extinguished in the second half. Despite some spirited efforts from players like Owen Wolff, who had been pivotal in previous encounters against LA, Austin struggled to break through a resolute Los Angeles defense led by goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. The visitors maintained their composure and continued to press forward.

As the clock ticked towards full time, LA sealed their emphatic win with one final flourish. In the dying moments of injury time, Jeremy Ebobisse added his name to the scoresheet with a goal in the 90+3 minute, bringing the final score to an overwhelming 4-1.

This result marks another chapter in what has become a fierce rivalry between these two teams. Just days earlier, Austin had managed to edge out LA with a narrow victory in their last meeting; however, this match highlighted how quickly fortunes can change in knockout football. While Austin entered this round hoping to build on that success and shake off recent poor form-having lost three out of their last five matches-their inability to contain LA's attacking prowess proved costly.

For Los Angeles FC, this victory not only serves as redemption after their previous loss but also reinforces their position as serious contenders for this tournament. Coach Steven Cherundolo will undoubtedly take pride in his team's performance and tactical execution throughout this match.

Looking ahead, both teams face critical challenges as they navigate through this playoff phase. For Austin FC, finding consistency will be key if they hope to rebound from this defeat and make an impact moving forward. Meanwhile, Los Angeles FC will aim to carry this momentum into subsequent rounds as they seek to solidify their status among MLS elite.

As for my pre-match predictions? Well, let's just say I might have underestimated LA's resolve and overestimated Austin's ability to bounce back from adversity. It seems I'll need more than wishful thinking next time around!