LOS ANGELES — Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) delivered a commanding performance on Tuesday night, April 7, 2026, defeating Mexican powerhouse Cruz Azul 3-0 at BMO Stadium in the first leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals.
Cruz Azul, the reigning CONCACAF champions, started the match strongly and controlled much of the opening 20 minutes, creating several threatening chances and putting early pressure on the LAFC backline. However, the Black & Gold weathered the storm, capitalized on their first clear opportunity, and never looked back.
on the 30th minute, Son Heung-min broke the deadlock with a clinical finish, assisted by Mathieu Choinière, to give LAFC a 1-0 lead. The South Korean forward’s goal shifted the momentum decisively in favor of the home side.
Just before halftime, young Venezuelan forward David Martínez doubled the advantage in the 39th minute, making it 2-0 for LAFC. The first half ended with the Black & Gold firmly in control, having turned their clinical finishing into a comfortable cushion.
The second half was largely one-sided. LAFC dominated possession and territory, limiting Cruz Azul to very few meaningful attacks. In the 58th minute, David Martínez struck again, scoring his second goal of the night to make the scoreline 3-0. His brace showcased composure and finishing ability that proved decisive.
From that point on, LAFC managed the game professionally, maintaining their shape and preventing any late comeback attempts from the visitors. The final whistle confirmed a convincing 3-0 victory in front of a passionate BMO Stadium crowd.
This result gives LAFC a significant advantage heading into the second leg on April 14 in Mexico. With a three-goal lead on aggregate, the Black & Gold are well-positioned to advance to the semifinals, though they will need to remain focused against a Cruz Azul side that will undoubtedly push hard at home.
Key Performers:
- David Martínez — Brace (39′, 58′)
- Son Heung-min — Opening goal (30′)
LAFC’s unbeaten run in 2026 continues in impressive fashion, blending defensive resilience with lethal attacking transitions. Fans at BMO Stadium witnessed a statement win against one of the region’s top clubs.
The second leg promises to be intense, but for now, Los Angeles is celebrating a memorable night in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Photos by Bruno De Witt Zanotto (Images capturing Son Heung-min’s opener, David Martínez’s celebrations, and key match moments at BMO Stadium.
