Los Angeles FC 3-1 Sporting Kansas City (aet): Giroud inspires US Open Cup win

Olivier Giroud said his move to Los Angeles FC was in a quest to win trophies after he helped guide his side to a 3-1 win over Sporting Kansas City in the US Open Cup final.

LAFC exorcised the demons from four consecutive final defeats, including in the Leagues Cup showpiece against Columbus Crew last month, to prevail at the BMO Stadium in extra-time.

Giroud, who made the move to the MLS after leaving Milan last season, opened the scoring in the 53rd minute, turning home Mateusz Bogusz’s cross from close range.

Sporting KC responded seven minutes later when Erik Thommy fired Daniel Salloi’s cutback beyond Hugo Lloris’ at his near post to send the game to extra-time.

Substitute Omar Campos curled home a fine finish in the 102nd minute to give the Black and Gold the lead before Kei Kamara headed home to seal LAFC’s maiden triumph in the competition.

“I came here to win trophies and to play that kind of final,” said Giroud.

“I was really sad and disappointed for the team regarding the Leagues Cup.

“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.”

LAFC return to MLS action this weekend when they travel to the TQL Stadium to face FC Cincinnati.

HISTORY

2024 U.S. OPEN CUP CHAMPIONS pic.twitter.com/LDkK4pa6uj

— LAFC (@LAFC) September 26, 2024