LOS ANGELES—Denis Bouanga delivered a masterclass on Sunday night, scoring a spectacular hat trick as Los Angeles FC overwhelmed Real Salt Lake 4-1 in front of a raucous crowd at BMO Stadium. The result not only reaffirmed LAFC’s title credentials but also etched Bouanga’s name in the MLS record books as the first player to record 20-plus goals in three consecutive seasons.

From the opening whistle, LAFC looked intent on seizing control. Their attacking intent paid off early, as Bouanga opened the scoring with a clinical finish, setting the tone for an evening filled with attacking flair. Real Salt Lake found some rhythm in possession, but LAFC’s transitional play proved decisive. The turning point came midway through the second half: after withstanding sustained pressure from Salt Lake, LAFC struck on the counter, with Bouanga timing his run perfectly to latch onto a perfectly weighted ball from Moran—recently introduced as a substitute—and lofting a cheeky chip over the stranded keeper to make it 3-1.

Bouanga’s relentless movement and clinical edge were simply too much for the visitors. His third of the night—completing the hat trick—showcased his signature composure, as he exploited space behind the defense after a quick combination involving Jeremy Bob, who made an instant impact off the bench. The BMO crowd erupted as Bouanga celebrated yet another milestone in his remarkable MLS career.

Real Salt Lake managed a consolation goal, but they struggled to break down LAFC’s compact defensive shape and paid dearly for their high line, repeatedly exposed by the hosts’ pace on the counter. The match was effectively put to bed in the final moments, with LAFC maintaining possession and managing the game with the poise of championship contenders.

Beyond Bouanga’s heroics, the result underscores LAFC’s depth and tactical versatility. The midfield, marshaled by Moran and Sun, dictated tempo and provided the platform for LAFC’s dynamic attack. The defense, though briefly tested, stood firm in crucial moments.

For Real Salt Lake, the defeat marks a setback in their playoff push, while LAFC’s emphatic win sends a clear message to the rest of MLS: the Black & Gold are peaking at the right time, and with Bouanga in this kind of form, they remain the team to beat.

As the final whistle sounded, Bouanga’s teammates mobbed him in celebration—the hat trick hero, and now, a league record-holder, once again the difference-maker for LAFC.