News Summary
Denis Bouanga delivered a stellar performance for LAFC, scoring a hat-trick in their 4-1 win against Real Salt Lake. This achievement ties him with Lionel Messi for the most goals in MLS this season, as Bouanga celebrates his 22 goals. His remarkable scoring record enhances LAFC’s playoff prospects, while Son Heung-min also shined with a goal of his own. Bouanga’s consistent excellence is reshaping the narrative in Major League Soccer, solidifying his status among the league’s greats.
Los Angeles witnessed a remarkable performance by Denis Bouanga during Los Angeles FC’s (LAFC) recent match against Real Salt Lake on September 22, 2025. Bouanga scored a hat-trick in LAFC’s 4-1 victory, bringing his season total to 22 goals and tying him with Lionel Messi for the most goals in Major League Soccer (MLS).
In a display of extraordinary skill and determination, Bouanga’s first goal came in the first-half stoppage time (45+1′), equalizing after Real Salt Lake initially took the lead. Following his equalizer, Son Heung-min further shifted the momentum by scoring LAFC’s second goal in the 47th minute. Bouanga continued to dominate the game, completing his hat-trick with goals in the 73rd and 87th minutes, marking his second hat-trick in three matches. His consistent scoring has now seen him score in four consecutive matches.
The remarkable feat of scoring 22 goals ties him with soccer icon Lionel Messi, highlighting Bouanga’s exceptional performance this season. Moreover, he becomes the first player in MLS history to score at least 20 goals in three consecutive seasons, having achieved the same in his previous two seasons as well. Bouanga has set a new club record with four regular-season hat-tricks, surpassing the legendary Carlos Vela. His career statistics show a total of 97 goals in 145 matches for LAFC across all competitions.
Son Heung-min’s contribution to the team was also noteworthy, as the forward achieved his seventh goal in just three games. The victory not only showcased individual brilliance but also solidified LAFC’s position in the league, as they have clinched a spot in the 2025 MLS Cup playoffs following St. Louis City’s win on September 21. Currently, LAFC holds 50 points and is ranked fourth in the Western Conference standings.
Following the game, LAFC’s head coach praised the contributions of Bouanga and Son, recognizing their crucial roles in the team’s performance and overall success this season. Bouanga’s accomplishment puts him in a select group of MLS greats, surpassing legendary figures such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Josef Martinez, and David Villa, all of whom are known for their remarkable scoring abilities.
This historic match further cements Bouanga’s status as a leading player in MLS, with his impressive goal-scoring record not only elevating LAFC’s competitive edge but also enhancing the excitement surrounding the league this season. Fans are eager to see how Bouanga maintains this momentum as the playoffs approach.
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Additional Resources
- MLS Soccer: Denis Bouanga Makes More MLS History
- Daily News: Bouanga’s Hat Trick Leads LAFC Past RSL
- Los Angeles Times: LAFC vs. Real Salt Lake – Denis Bouanga
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Major League Soccer
- Google Search: Denis Bouanga
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond 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 Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
