Bridgeview, Illinois, August 10, 2025
News Summary
Son Heung-Min made a noteworthy first appearance for Los Angeles FC in their 2-2 draw against Chicago Fire. Entering in the 61st minute, he drew a penalty leading to the equalizer. The match attracted an enthusiastic crowd of 19,831, celebrating Son’s debut and LAFC’s playoff ambitions. Despite the draw, his presence brought excitement and energy to the team, as they continue their pursuit for a spot in the playoffs.
Bridgeview, Illinois
Son Heung-Min made an impressive MLS debut for Los Angeles FC (LAFC) on Sunday, contributing significantly to a dramatic 2-2 draw against Chicago Fire at SeatGeek Stadium. The match took place in front of a sold-out crowd of 19,831 fans who were eager to see the South Korean star play.
Entering the game in the 61st minute, Son immediately brought energy to the field. Just 16 minutes later, in the 77th minute, he was pivotal in earning a penalty kick after being fouled by Chicago defender Carlos Terán. The penalty was subsequently converted by Denis Bouanga, equalizing the match at 2-2 and marking Bouanga’s 14th goal of the season.
LAFC faced a challenging game as they initially trailed 2-1. Chicago Fire’s Jonathan Bamba scored in the 70th minute to give Chicago the lead. Ryan Hollingshead had earlier equalized for LAFC with a goal in the 19th minute, assisted by David Martínez. Despite the morale-boosting presence of Son, LAFC had to settle for a draw, allowing both teams to share the points.
LAFC’s head coach, Steve Cherundolo, commended Son’s immediate impact in the game, highlighting the excitement it brought to the fans. The atmosphere inside the stadium was electric, with many supporters wearing jerseys representing Son’s previous clubs, including Tottenham Hotspur and Bayer 04 Leverkusen alongside South Korean kits.
Son had arrived in Los Angeles just days before the match and participated in limited training sessions with his new team. Nevertheless, his eagerness to contribute was evident as he made his first appearance in the league, which is crucial for LAFC’s campaign as they attempt to secure a spot in the upcoming Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. The team currently sits in sixth place in the Western Conference.
Both teams demonstrated strong defensive skills throughout the match, with Chicago’s Chris Brady making four saves and LAFC’s Hugo Lloris recording one. The match highlighted the challenges both teams face as they pursue playoff ambitions, with the Fire striving for their first playoff berth since 2017.
Upcoming Matches
LAFC will look to build on Son’s debut performance in their next match against the New England Revolution, while Chicago Fire continues to battle for a playoff spot in the remaining weeks of the season.
Match Summary
- Match Result: LAFC 2 – 2 Chicago Fire
- LAFC Goals: Ryan Hollingshead (19′), Denis Bouanga (77′ – Penalty)
- Chicago Fire Goals: Carlos Terán (11′), Jonathan Bamba (70′)
- Attendance: 19,831
- LAFC Position: 6th place in Western Conference
- Next Game: vs New England Revolution
FAQ
What was Son Heung-Min’s role in the match?
Son Heung-Min made a significant impact after coming off the bench in the 61st minute, drawing a penalty kick in the 77th minute, which led to LAFC’s equalizing goal.
What were the final score and significant events in the match?
The match ended in a 2-2 draw. Chicago scored first, LAFC equalized, Chicago took the lead again, and then LAFC equalized with a penalty.
How are LAFC performing in the league after this match?
After the match, LAFC is currently in sixth place in the Western Conference as they aim for a playoff position.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
MLS Weekend Injury Report: Key Players Sidelined
Son Heung-min Transfers to LAFC from Tottenham Hotspur
Additional Resources
- Daily News
- Google Search: Son Heung-Min MLS debut
- New York Times
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Son Heung-Min
- Korea Joongang Daily
- Google News: LAFC vs Chicago Fire
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
