It took longer than expected, but Jeremy Ebobisse has kicked off Major League Soccer’s 30th season with the first goal, and what a goal it was. Scored in the 78th minute with his last touch of the game, Ebobisse turned a frustrating match for the Black and Gold into a party in Los Angeles. That goal was enough for a 1-0 win as LAFC recorded eight consecutive season opener victories.

Breaking in a new midfield, LAFC struggled in the first half, but tactical adjustments from head coach Steve Cherundolo, like flipping Timothy Tillman’s side in midfield, allowed LAFC to find space against Minnesota United. With attention on Denis Bouanga, Ebobisse found a gap and finished brilliantly past Dayne St. Clair.

You knew it had to be… 😉
THE FIRST MLS GOAL OF 2025 IS A BANGER!!! pic.twitter.com/6eTFgy3t01
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) February 22, 2025

While Ebobisse might not start every week, he has clinched a strong opportunity to secure it from Oliver Giroud, who struggled last season with no goals in 14 MLS appearances. His trajectory looks promising early on with LAFC, especially after the departure of Mateusz Bogusz.

LaFC