Barely days after securing its biggest win of the MLS season, Nashville SC delivered another statement victory Sunday night at GEODIS Park, defeating LAFC 3-2 to move alone atop the Supporters’ Shield standings. The Boys in Gold now sit on 30 points through 13 matches and remain unbeaten at home in MLS play.
In a matchup packed with attacking talent, Hany Mukhtar stole the spotlight with a historic performance. After LAFC threatened early and forced several key saves from goalkeeper Brian Schwake, Nashville struck first through Mukhtar, who finished off a smooth attacking sequence started by Jeisson Palacios and Warren Madrigal.
Mukhtar doubled the lead moments later with a stunning free kick that marked the 100th goal of his Nashville SC career. LAFC answered before halftime through David Martinez to cut the deficit to 2-1 and keep the pressure on heading into the break.
After a calmer start to the second half, Mukhtar completed his hat trick with another brilliant free kick, giving Nashville a 3-1 advantage and securing the fifth hat trick of his club career. Denis Bouanga later pulled one back for LAFC, but Nashville’s defense and Schwake’s late saves helped preserve the victory.
With the win, Nashville SC strengthened its position as one of MLS’s top teams and extended its undefeated run at GEODIS Park ahead of next weekend’s clash against New York City FC.
