LOS ANGELES – Emmanuel Sabbi delivered a crucial moment for Vancouver, transforming the team’s only shot on target into a match-winning goal, as the Whitecaps edged past Los Angeles FC with a 1-0 triumph on Sunday night. Goalkeeper Yohei Takaoka bolstered the team’s efforts with four critical saves in a game that marked Olivier Giroud’s last appearance for LAFC.
Giroud took to the field for 60 minutes in what was his final match with Los Angeles’ team. The renowned French striker is set to move to Lille after a challenging year in Los Angeles, where he struggled to leave a notable mark, netting just five goals in a total of 38 appearances. Giroud nearly had a dream farewell moment when Denis Bouanga delivered an excellent cross to him deep in Vancouver’s penalty area in the 50th minute. Unfortunately for Giroud, his attempt went soaring over the crossbar.
As Giroud exited the game, the crowd gave him a standing ovation, yet LAFC was unable to find an equalizer in his absence. This match was LAFC’s first outing following a three-game winless run at the Club World Cup, where they managed to secure just one goal. Nonetheless, their participation resulted in a financial boost, with the team earning at least $9.5 million for making it into the tournament’s final round. However, upon returning to Los Angeles, their impressive nine-match unbeaten streak in league play came to a frustrating halt at the hands of Vancouver.
Despite their struggles, the Whitecaps rejoiced in Takaoka’s tenth clean sheet, marking just their second victory out of six recent matches. This win proved essential, especially given the absence of key players like Brian White, Jayden Nelson, and Sebastian Berhalter, who were all away on Gold Cup international duties. Sabbi’s goal came in the 20th minute through a dazzling play, where he initiated a counterattack by intercepting the ball at midfield, seamlessly controlling Jeevan Badwal’s midair pass on the move, culminating in his first goal since April 12.
In the absence of regular starter Hugo Lloris, who took a break after the interplay throughout the Club World Cup, backup goalkeeper David Ochoa got his first chance to represent LAFC, stepping in and showcasing his promises between the posts.