Olivier Giroud played a key role in Los Angeles FC’s 3-1 extra-time victory over Sporting Kansas City, securing the US Open Cup final on Wednesday and keeping their dream of a domestic double alive. LAFC, already on track for the MLS Cup playoffs, triumphed with extra-time goals from Omar Campos and Kei Kamara after the match was tied 1-1 in regulation.
Giroud, the 37-year-old French veteran, opened the scoring in the 53rd minute with a composed finish from Mateusz Bogusz’s cross, sending the home crowd at BMO Stadium into a frenzy. However, Kansas City equalized just seven minutes later through Erik Thommy, whose deflected shot beat LAFC’s Hugo Lloris, pushing the game into extra time.
In extra time, LAFC found their rhythm. Campos gave them the lead in the 102nd minute with a brilliant solo effort, weaving past defenders before slotting the ball into the bottom corner. Kamara sealed the win with a powerful header from a Denis Bouanga cross in the 109th minute.
LAFC, currently fourth in the MLS Western Conference, now aims to become just the third team to complete the league and cup double, a feat last achieved by LA Galaxy in 2005. The victory was especially sweet for Giroud, who had previously scored in their Leagues Cup final loss to Columbus Crew last month.
