Denis Bouanga’s scoring form, fueled by his hunger for goals and partnership with Son Heung-min, is key for Los Angeles FC. They face Real Salt Lake, who are chasing a playoff spot. LAFC aims to continue their road unbeaten streak, while RSL looks to capitalize on their home form.
Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga is currently in sensational form. He attributes his recent success to his insatiable desire to score goals and the invaluable support he receives from his teammate, Son Heung-min. Bouanga's prolific scoring ability has been instrumental in LAFC's push for a playoff spot in the Western Conference.
In their previous match against the San Jose Earthquakes, the 30-year-old Bouanga showcased his incredible talent by scoring a hat-trick in LAFC's dominant 4-2 victory. This win brought them within a single point of the fourth-place Seattle Sounders, intensifying the battle for playoff positioning.
Bouanga's remarkable third goal in that game allowed him to equal Carlos Vela's impressive record of 93 goals for LAFC. Now, the striker has the opportunity to surpass Vela's record and claim the outright lead in their upcoming match against Real Salt Lake.
Adding to his recent achievements, Bouanga also scored a hat-trick while representing Gabon during the international break. With his confidence soaring, he is eager to maintain his exceptional scoring form and continue contributing to LAFC's success.
"I'm hungry for goals," Bouanga declared after the victory over San Jose, highlighting his unwavering determination. He also emphasized the importance of teamwork, stating, "The team also help me a lot, and I love football so much. I'm very happy to get the [match] ball."
Expressing his gratitude for matching Carlos Vela's record, Bouanga acknowledged Vela's legendary status at LAFC. He said, "I'm very happy to tie Carlos [record]. Carlos is a legend at LAFC, and I appreciate [the opportunity] to tie Carlos."
Bouanga also spoke highly of his partnership with Son Heung-min, emphasizing their seamless connection on the field. "It is too easy to play on the pitch with Sonny. You can see he is an amazing player, and off the field, he is a good person. Everyone who knows Sonny knows this," Bouanga shared, highlighting the mutual respect and understanding between the two players.
LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo echoed Bouanga's sentiments, praising Son's impact on the team. "I enjoy coaching him. Hopefully, he enjoys playing for us," Cherundolo said. He further emphasized the significance of goals in football, stating, "I think what any attacker means for any club is goals. He has 93 arguments that he is one of the best."
After defeating Sporting Kansas City in their most recent match, Real Salt Lake aims to build on their momentum as they pursue a playoff berth in the Western Conference. Currently, they trail the Earthquakes by a single point in ninth place but have played two fewer games, giving them an advantage in the standings.
Are you not entertained? pic.twitter.com/xVr5e679jr
— LAFC (@LAFC) September 14, 2025
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Real Salt Lake – Zavier Gozo
Zavier Gozo delivered assists for both of Real Salt Lake's goals in their previous game, marking him as the first player aged 18 or younger to record two assists in an MLS match since Fidel Barajas, also of RSL, accomplished the same feat in March 2024. Gozo's playmaking abilities make him a key player to watch for Real Salt Lake.
Los Angeles FC – Denis Bouanga
Bouanga has elevated his already impressive scoring record since Son's arrival. In his last five MLS appearances, Bouanga has scored five goals. Only Lionel Messi (19) and Sam Surridge (21) have outscored the Gabon international in the league this season. His prolific goal-scoring and partnership with Son make him a player to watch.
MATCH PREDICTION – LOS ANGELES FC WIN
LAFC's unbeaten streak on the road in regular-season matches now extends to nine games (three wins, six draws) following their match against the Earthquakes. Only two teams in MLS history have managed to go 10 or more consecutive away league games without a loss: RSL in 2024 (10 straight) and FC Dallas in 2010 (12 straight).
However, RSL has been strong at home, winning five of their last seven regular-season home matches (two losses) following a 2-1 victory over Kansas City. Before this run, RSL had only secured two wins in their first seven league games at America First Field this season (D1 L4).
RSL is currently on a three-match unbeaten streak against LAFC (two wins, one draw). Before this, RSL had suffered defeats in 13 of their 15 matches against LAFC (two wins) across all competitions.
In their last six league matches, Salt Lake has recorded two wins and four losses. Meanwhile, LAFC has won two, drawn two, and lost two in their last six games, indicating similar form coming into this match.
OPTA WIN PROBABILITY
Real Salt Lake – 31.2%
Draw – 25.2%
Los Angeles FC – 43.7%