By G. Mudalige, Jadetimes Staff
G. Mudalige is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Technology & Innovation
Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud once again showed why he remains one of football's most clutch performers, even at 37, as he inspired Los Angeles FC to a 3-1 win over Sporting Kansas City, securing the 2024 U.S. Open Cup title. The veteran forward, who joined the Major League Soccer (MLS) side after leaving AC Milan last summer, netted a crucial goal that broke the deadlock and gave LAFC the momentum they needed to clinch the prestigious trophy. The final, held at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles, was a tightly contested affair. Both LAFC and Sporting Kansas City have a history of producing exciting encounters, and this clash was no different. The two teams battled through a goalless first half, with both defenses standing strong. Kansas City threatened on the counter with their pace, while LAFC dominated possession but struggled to break down their opponents.
However, the game’s intensity surged in the second half when Giroud found himself in the right place at the right time. In the 53rd minute, a quick build-up from LAFC’s midfield led to a cross from the left wing. Giroud, showing his trademark awareness and positioning, latched onto the ball inside the six-yard box and tapped it in from close range to put his side ahead. The goal not only underlined his poacher's instinct but also demonstrated why LAFC invested in his experience to bring a winning mentality to the squad. Despite LAFC taking the lead, Sporting Kansas City, who have been perennial contenders in American soccer, refused to go down without a fight. Erik Thommy, the German midfielder, capitalized on a rare defensive lapse by LAFC in the 74th minute, slotting home a well-placed shot to equalize and send the game into extra time. The crowd at BMO Stadium, which had been electric throughout the match, grew more anxious as the game approached the final whistle of regulation. Kansas City, sensing an opportunity to steal the game, increased their pressure, but LAFC’s defense held firm.
With the game hanging in the balance, extra time became a battle of endurance. LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo made a few key substitutions to keep the energy levels up, including bringing on fresh legs to combat Kansas City's high press. The tactical changes paid off, as LAFC regained control of the match.
In the first half of extra time, it was Mexican defender Omar Campos who gave LAFC the lead once again. The 24-year-old fullback, known for his marauding runs up the wing, found himself in an advanced position and struck a low drive past Kansas City's goalkeeper John Pulskamp, igniting the home fans with excitement. Campos’ goal shifted the momentum decisively in LAFC’s favor.
With Sporting Kansas City now chasing the game, spaces began to open up at the back. LAFC capitalized on one such opportunity in the second half of extra time. Sierra Leonean forward Kei Kamara, who came on as a substitute, used his vast experience to outmuscle a Kansas City defender and coolly slotted home LAFC’s third goal, effectively sealing the victory. Kamara’s strike was the final blow in a match that showcased LAFC’s resilience and depth. For Olivier Giroud, the victory was especially sweet. After retiring from international duty in July as France’s all-time leading scorer with 57 goals, the Frenchman joined LAFC with a clear goal: to win trophies. However, his first taste of silverware in the United States did not come easily.
LAFC had endured a painful loss in the final of the Leagues Cup in August, where they were defeated by Columbus Crew. Giroud, reflecting on that defeat, said, "I came here to win trophies and to play that kind of final. I was really sad and disappointed for the team regarding the Leagues Cup."
The Frenchman had been vocal about his determination to bounce back from that disappointment, and his performance in the U.S. Open Cup final showed just how motivated he was. "We've been in a difficult run these last weeks, but we stuck together, and we really wanted to win this trophy for the fans, for the club. It does matter for me, for the boys, and I'm so happy to score in this final and to help the team," Giroud added in his post-match interview.
His goal, as simple as it may have seemed, was the result of years of experience and an unwavering commitment to the team. It also reinforced the fact that Giroud, despite his age, remains a game-changer in crucial moments. The U.S. Open Cup, one of the oldest and most prestigious soccer tournaments in the United States, holds immense value for LAFC, a club that has quickly established itself as a powerhouse since joining MLS in 2018. This win marks LAFC's first U.S. Open Cup triumph and adds another accolade to the club's growing trophy cabinet, which includes the 2019 Supporters' Shield and the 2022 MLS Cup. For LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo, the victory is a testament to the hard work the team has put in throughout the season, despite some challenging moments. The team had struggled with consistency in recent weeks, but their ability to rise to the occasion in the final demonstrates their resilience and hunger for success.
Moreover, the win keeps LAFC’s hopes of completing a domestic league and cup double alive. Only three teams have ever achieved this feat, with LA Galaxy last doing so in 2005 after Chicago Fire and DC United had managed the same. LAFC currently sit fourth in the MLS Western Conference standings and are expected to secure a playoff spot, positioning themselves for a run at the MLS Cup title as well.
With their sights now set on MLS Cup glory, LAFC can use the momentum from this U.S. Open Cup victory as a springboard for the remainder of the season. The team's depth, bolstered by veterans like Giroud and Kamara, alongside emerging talents like Omar Campos, makes them a formidable opponent for any playoff contender. Giroud’s influence, both on and off the pitch, cannot be overstated. His experience in winning titles in Europe with clubs like Chelsea, Arsenal, and AC Milan, along with his international pedigree with France, brings invaluable leadership to a relatively young LAFC squad. As the team gears up for the final stretch of the season, his ability to deliver in high-stakes moments will be crucial.
While Sporting Kansas City will be disappointed to have missed out on the trophy, they can take pride in their performance and look ahead to the MLS playoffs, where they are expected to compete fiercely.
For now, though, the night belongs to LAFC and Olivier Giroud, whose goal, combined with a strong team performance, delivered a historic U.S. Open Cup win and perhaps the first chapter in what could be a storybook season for the Black and Gold.
Comments