“A magical moment!” Denis Bouanga celebrates LAFC’s historic Club World Cup qualification

Omna Taddele
Jun 1
2 min read

Los Angeles FC forward Denis Bouanga celebrates his goal against Club América — **Photo: Los Angeles FC/Facebook**

Gabonese international Denis Bouanga has reacted to Los Angeles FC’s qualification for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup following a 2-1 win over Mexican side Club América late Saturday evening. The 30-year-old attacker scored the crucial second goal and provided an assist as LAFC confirmed their place in the Club World Cup.

Speaking after the match, Bouanga stated that he felt relieved to have qualified for the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States of America. “I feel relieved, simply put. It was a high-stakes match, a match with very high stakes. We had to qualify and reach the FIFA Club World Cup. It was on home turf. We had to give everything, give 100%. Now, I truly feel relieved,” said the former Saint-Étienne winger.

Bouanga further added that this is an achievement by LAFC and can also be considered a personal success. “I think it was an achievement. Everyone would have liked to be in our position. Everyone would have liked the chance to play a final before going to the FIFA Club World Cup. Personally, I was eager to start this match and to finish it the way we did today. For the team and everyone, I think it’s a huge moment. I think most of the players—and maybe even the club—won’t do this again in four years. For me, it’s a magical moment.”

LAFC will face Brazilian outfit Flamengo, English giants Chelsea, and Tunisian Ligue 1 champions Espérance de Tunis in Group D. Bouanga acknowledged the strength of the opponents but vowed to fight. “They’re very good teams. If they’re there, it’s not by accident. I think now we can say that we’re one of the best teams in the world, just by being part of this tournament. We’re eager to face them, and I hope we’ll have a few chances.”

Bouanga joined the MLS side in 2022 after a spell in France. Born and raised in Le Mans, France, he represents Gabon at the international level. He will be the only Gabonese player in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer.