By Josue Lopez
After questionable performances, the Black and Gold showed sharpness in front of a timid opponent. Even though none of the goals were for their potential number 9, which in this case was Matheus Bogusz, the midfielders and Designed Player Denis Bouanga were in charge of the festive atmosphere that took place at BMO Stadium.
Without Tomas Campos due to National Team duty, the Black and Gold step to the field with Hugo Lloris in goal; Rayan Hollingshead,m and Sergi Palencia (who replaced the Mexican national team player) in the wings; Jesus Murillo and Aaronn long as central defenders; captain Ilie Sanchez, Timoty Tilman and Eduard Atuesta in the middle; and a dynamic front three with Cristian Olivera, Denis Bouanga and Mateus Bougsz.
The first goal came after a corner and a rebound: After Joe Willis placed the ball in the middle of the box, the German American midfielder stroked the ball with all his strength to put the first goal, at the 9th minute. After an outstanding long-distance shot from Sergi Palencia, Denis Bouanga was tackled in the area. After the VAR review, the penalty was given. And thus, the Gaboan star scores his first goal of the season (18´).
In the third minute of the second half, Mister 2023 Golden Boot scored his second goal of the season. As a false ¨9¨, Mateus Bogusz left a flipped ball to Sergi Palencia. The Catalan right winger placed the ball all the way to the left where Bouanga stroked the ball with a first touch. Eduard Atuesta was an option, but he left the ball pass so his DP teammate could score his second goal of the season.
David Martinez, 18 year 18-year-old Venezuelan prospect, joined the field at the 66th minute replacing Bogusz. It took him 10 minutes to make his presence clear with an outstanding assist to Cristian Olivers who scored the fourth goal. In the 95th minute, Eduard Atuesta´s performance was awarded with a great header goal after an assist from the Man of the Match Denis Bouanga.
Nashville has a couple of long-distance shots, but nothing that could threaten Hugo Lloris. Thus, the Black and Gold won 5-0
Nashville returns to Tennessee to play against MLS current champions Colombus Crew. LAFC travels to Colorado to play against the Rapids. Both games are on Saturday.