Liga Deportiva Alajuelense earned a valuable result with a 1-1 draw against Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in the first leg of the round of 16 of the Concachampions 2026, played at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles. The Costa Rican team withstood the US team’s dominance and managed to earn a draw that leaves the tie open for the second leg.
The match had two clear sides: LAFC’s offensive pressure for much of the game and Alajuelense’s defensive discipline, which was able to take advantage of one of its opportunities and had an outstanding performance by goalkeeper Washington Ortega. For Hispanic fans who follow soccer in the United States, this match represented another chapter in the growing sporting rivalry between MLS clubs and Central American teams in CONCACAF’s main club competition.
LAFC dominated, but Alajuelense struck first
From the very first minutes, the team from Los Angeles tried to impose its rhythm.
The home team had more possession of the ball and generated several offensive opportunities.
Among the most active players was Son Heung-Min, who was constantly involved in creating dangerous plays.
However, Alajuelense was organized in defense and found in its goalkeeper Washington Ortega its main figure.
The goalkeeper prevented the goal on several occasions during the first half.
When it seemed that the score would be goalless at halftime, the Costa Rican team surprised.
In the 44th minute, Alejandro Bran took advantage of space outside the box and unleashed a powerful right-footed shot that beat goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.
Making it 0-1 for the visitors just before halftime (Filed under: Concachampions 2026 LAFC Alajuelense).
Los Angelinos reacted in the second half
In the second half, the LAFC coach adjusted his tactical scheme and the team intensified its offensive pressure.
The equalizer came in the 56th minute when Son Heung-Min slipped a pinpoint pass to Denis Bouanga.
The striker took advantage of the opportunity and scored with a cross-shot from the left side of the area to beat Ortega and make the score 1-1.
After the equalizer, LAFC maintained control of the match and generated several dangerous chances.
However, a lack of precision in their finishing and Ortega’s interventions prevented the home side from scoring the winning goal (Filed under: Concachampions 2026 LAFC Alajuelense).
Among the most active soccer players was Son-Heung Min
QuéOnnda.com
A draw that leaves everything open
In the final minutes, Alajuelense focused on defending the result, resisting LAFC’s pressure even during the minutes of stoppage time in this Concachampions 2026 match.
The Costa Rican team managed to hold on for a draw, a result that could prove key in the series.
With this score, the tie is completely open and will be decided in the second leg.
Alajuelense will be looking to take advantage of its home advantage to advance to the quarterfinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
For soccer fans in the United States, the result confirms that the regional competition remains highly competitive and that Central American clubs continue to be tough opponents for MLS teams.
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