Son Heung-min's Goal Drought Continues as LAFC Seeks Breakthrough in MLS Rivalry Son Heung-min's goal-scoring drought in Major League Soccer (MLS) has stretched into his second season with LAFC, raising concerns about his ability to replicate his prolific form from last year. The South Korean forward, who joined the league in 2025 with 13 goals in 21 games, has yet to find the net in 2026, despite his inclusion in the 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. His lack of goals has coincided with South Korea’s early exit from the tournament, where the team suffered consecutive group-stage losses following a narrow victory over the Czech Republic. The upcoming match against LA Galaxy on the 18th (Korean time) has become a focal point for both teams and fans. Known as “El Tráfico,” the rivalry between LAFC and LA Galaxy carries significant weight in the Western Conference, and Son’s potential impact in this high-stakes clash could determine the outcome. For LAFC, who currently sit in sixth place in the Western Conference with seven wins, five draws, and three losses, Son’s ability to score is critical as they aim to challenge for top spots. The game presents a unique opportunity for the striker to break his slump, particularly if Galaxy’s defensive strategy creates space for him to exploit. Son’s struggles in MLS this season have been attributed to both tactical challenges and a lack of clinical finishing. Unlike his role with the South Korean national team, where he operated as a left winger or central striker, Son has been deployed in a more central role by LAFC, often facing intense marking from defenders. This shift has limited his ability to cut inside and shoot, a key strength in his previous performances. However, LAFC’s attacking strategy has relied heavily on the synergy between Son and Denis Bouanga, the team’s creative force.#denis_bouanga #lafc #son_heung_min #la_galaxy #el_trfico
