LAFC’s Denis Bouanga Reaches Century Mark, Matches Carlos Vela’s Goal Record
LAFC’s Wrecking Ball
Since arriving in MLS two years ago, French attacker Denis Bouanga has been a black and gold wrecking ball. Making his hundredth career appearance for LAFC on Wednesday night, Bouanga’s 67th goal matched club legend Carlos Vela over that same span. It took Vela four seasons to reach the century mark, while Bouanga did it in less than two and a half.
Security Blanket for Coach Cherundolo
From his first goal with LAFC to clinch the Supporters’ Shield in 2022 through his 15th game-winner in a 1-0 victory over St. Louis City on Wednesday at BMO Stadium, Bouanga has become something of a security blanket for head coach Steve Cherundolo.
"When he’s on the field I’m very warm, I guess," Cherundolo said. "Warm and cozy inside. He’s a great player. We know we can count on him. He knows his responsibility on this team is to come up with those moments, and I think right now it’s just a great little marriage."
Golden Boot Winner
The 2023 MLS Golden Boot winner’s 19th league goal of the season kept the 29-year-old Gabonese international within three of D.C. United’s Christian Benteke in the race to be the league’s top scorer.
"I’m eager," said Bouanga, who spoke with Benteke on Monday and reiterated that he is trying his best to catch the 33-year-old Congolese forward. "I’m hungry for more. I’m super happy that Steve feels fuzzy that I’m on the team."
Game-Winner and Clean Sheet
Bouanga’s league-leading ninth game-winner marked his 26th goal in all competitions in 2024, and his second in as many matches following a tremendous effort in Cincinnati last weekend to secure a 2-1 victory. The clean sheet was the fourth time in four meetings against St. Louis (7-12-13, 34 points) that LAFC didn’t concede.
Conclusion
Denis Bouanga has been a force to be reckoned with for LAFC, and his latest goal and game-winner solidify his position as a key player for the team. With the regular season coming to a close, Bouanga and LAFC will look to continue their strong form and make a push for the top of the Western Conference standings.
FAQs
Q: How many goals has Denis Bouanga scored for LAFC?
A: Bouanga has scored 67 goals for LAFC in his 100th career appearance.
Q: How does Bouanga’s goal record compare to Carlos Vela’s?
A: Bouanga has matched Vela’s goal record over the same span, with Vela taking four seasons to reach the century mark and Bouanga doing it in less than two and a half.
Q: What is Bouanga’s goal-scoring record in all competitions in 2024?
A: Bouanga has scored 26 goals in all competitions in 2024, including 19 league goals and 7 goals in other competitions.
