Son Heung-min of LAFC saw his scoring streak come to an abrupt end as his team lost 0-1 to San Diego FC on August 16, 2026, at BMO Stadium in Los Angeles.
Key facts
LAFC lost 0-1 in their 2026 MLS Season Round 20 match against San Diego FC.
Son Heung-min took four shots, the most by either team, but failed to score.
With this loss, LAFC dropped to third place with 34 points.
San Diego FC moved up to 12th place following their victory.
Why it matters: Son Heung-min's inability to score marks a notable shift in form for the star player, who had previously enjoyed a successful streak. This defeat also impacts LAFC's standing in the league.
Son's five-match scoring streak was halted, which included four goals in the regular season before this match.
LAFC's loss snapped their five-match unbeaten run, which included four wins and one draw.
Son's performance is under scrutiny as he missed several scoring opportunities during the match.
Driving the news: The match took place at 11:30 a.m. KST, where LAFC faced San Diego FC in a tightly contested game. The defeat came after LAFC had been on a strong upward trend, with hopes of claiming the top spot in the Western Conference.
LAFC had the chance to rise to first place with a win but instead fell to third.
San Diego FC scored the decisive goal in the 44th minute via a penalty kick after a handball by LAFC defender Ryan Porteous.
State of play: Throughout the match, Son Heung-min displayed active movement and took multiple shots but could not convert any into goals.
Son's first shot came in the 5th minute, where he broke through two defenders but missed wide left.
He had another opportunity in the second half, narrowly missing a shot that skimmed past the left post.
LAFC struggled offensively, with their ball possession dropping as low as 23% during the match.
The big picture: This match highlighted LAFC's challenges in breaking down defenses, particularly against San Diego FC, a team they had yet to defeat in their history.
LAFC's previous record against San Diego FC includes no wins, marking this game as another missed opportunity.
Son's scoring drought raises questions about his form as LAFC heads into a competitive stretch of the season.
What they're saying: Analysts and fans alike are concerned about Son's recent performances and LAFC's strategy moving forward.
"Son has created several good scoring opportunities but needs to find the net to regain his confidence," said a sports analyst.
LAFC coach emphasized the need for improvement in offensive tactics to support their star player.
By the numbers: The match stats reveal a stark picture of LAFC's struggles.
Son Heung-min has now gone four consecutive official matches without scoring, including three in the Leagues Cup.
LAFC currently holds 34 points from 10 wins, 5 draws, and 6 losses, placing them third in the Western Conference.
San Diego FC improved to 12th place with 24 points, demonstrating a shift in momentum.
What's next: LAFC will need to regroup quickly as they face upcoming matches that will be key for their playoff aspirations.
Coaches and players are expected to analyze game footage to address the offensive shortcomings displayed in this match.
Fans are hoping for a turnaround in form as Son and LAFC prepare for their next fixtures.