Los Angeles vs ES Tunis

Following losses in their opening matches, Los Angeles FC and Esperance Tunis are set to clash at Geodis Park on Friday, each desperate to secure their first points in the FIFA Club World Cup.

The MLS side is coming off a 2-0 defeat to Chelsea, while the African powerhouse suffered an identical loss to Brazilian giants Flamengo.

Los Angeles FC earned their spot in this expanded global tournament through an unexpected route. Initially sidelined, they capitalized on the expulsion of 2023 CONCACAF Champions League winners Leon, who violated FIFA’s multi-club ownership rules. This opened the door for LAFC, who defeated Club America in a playoff to claim the vacant slot.

Making their debut in the competition and placed in Group D alongside Chelsea, Flamengo, and Esperance, LAFC were eager to prove their worth. Facing the Premier League’s Chelsea, Steve Cherundolo’s squad held their own until Pedro Neto scored in the 34th minute, with Enzo Fernandez sealing the 2-0 result after halftime.

This loss ended LAFC’s ten-game unbeaten streak across all competitions, putting them in a tough spot. With a final group match against Flamengo looming, anything less than a win on Friday could jeopardize their chances of advancing to the knockout stage.

Esperance Tunis face a similar challenge after their 2-0 loss to Flamengo ended their eleven-game unbeaten run (nine wins, two draws). Known for their prolific attack, with 27 goals in those eleven matches, the Tunisian side struggled offensively, failing to produce a shot on target until the 67th minute.

Their usually solid defense, which had secured nine clean sheets in that stretch, was breached, marking the first time in twelve games they conceded multiple goals.

As Esperance look to recover and keep their knockout hopes alive, their past performances in the competition’s earlier format—where they won just one of six matches across three appearances—offer little reassurance.