LAFC’s Denis Bouanga was crowned MLS Player of the Matchday 18 for the 2026 season after delivering a standout performance that helped his side crush Sporting Kansas City 4‑0. The award marks his sixth such honor, placing him third among active players in the league’s history of Matchday recognitions.
A milestone night for Bouanga
The forward struck twice and added an assist for David Martínez, showcasing the dual threat that has defined his career. His second goal, scored five minutes from full time, sealed the 4‑0 win and extended his unbeaten scoring run to three consecutive games since the league resumed after the FIFA World Cup break.
Bouanga’s performance also pushed him to 75 career regular‑season goals, a milestone that places him among the 39 players in MLS history to reach that mark and makes him one of four active players with 75 or more goals. He has now recorded goals in all three matches since the post‑World Cup return, and his six Matchday awards rank him third among current players.
The accolade underscores not only Bouanga’s individual brilliance but also LAFC’s dominant form as they prepare for their next challenge. The team will travel to face Vancouver at BC Place on August 1, a fixture that could further cement the forward’s place in the league’s modern era.