Particle.news
Download on the App Store
20 ARTICLES
·
2d ago

Son Heung-Min’s Debut Penalty Secures 2-2 Draw for LAFC

Son’s record-setting transfer to LAFC drew a near-sellout crowd in Chicago, highlighting cross-market appeal through a penalty he earned in his first appearance.

Aug 9, 2025; Bridgeview, Illinois, USA; Los Angeles FC forward Son Heung-Min (7) celebrates a draw against the Chicago Fire at SeatGeek Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Talia Sprague-Imagn Images
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Son entered as a 61st-minute substitute and won a VAR-reviewed penalty that Denis Bouanga converted in the 81st minute to salvage a 2-2 draw at SeatGeek Stadium.
  • In roughly 30 minutes on the pitch, the South Korea captain registered three shots on goal and forced a stoppage-time effort that was blocked, though he did not score.
  • Accelerated visa and International Transfer Certificate clearance enabled Son’s debut just days after completing a reported MLS-record transfer of around $26.5 million from Tottenham Hotspur.
  • The match drew a near-sellout crowd of 19,831 and propelled Son to second place in MLS jersey sales, underscoring his immediate commercial impact.
  • LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo said Son’s arrival will bolster the attack, with the South Korea international poised for his first MLS start in upcoming fixtures.