Oluwaseyi noted that while Minnesota restricted LAFC's chances, they must recognize the higher level of performance needed to beat top opponents.

On July 16, 2025, Minnesota United lost 1-0 at home to LAFC, with Denis Bouanga scoring the decisive penalty.

The match highlighted Minnesota's ongoing struggles against top teams in the Western Conference, as they failed to secure a win.

A controversial moment in the 40th minute involved a penalty awarded to LAFC after a lengthy review, involving Minnesota's Nicolás Romero.

Despite the loss, Minnesota remained in third place in the Western Conference but missed a chance to move higher with this result.

Midfielder Wil Trapp pointed out that the team showed more structure and calm in the second half but still lacked precision on the ball.

Minnesota struggled to break down LAFC's defensive setup, which featured five defenders and a non-pressing midfield, limiting attacking opportunities.

Manager Eric Ramsay acknowledged that opponents are adapting by defending deeply and letting Minnesota have the ball, indicating a tactical need for evolution.

Looking ahead, Minnesota will face the Portland Timbers on July 22, 2025, a team known for consistently competing in the playoffs and presenting a tough challenge.

Of Minnesota's 11 wins this season, only one has come against a team currently in the top seven of the Western Conference, raising concerns about their performance against stronger teams.

LAFC's strategy allowed Minnesota to control possession without threatening goal, which striker Tani Oluwaseyi described as a 'taste of your own medicine'.

Despite improvements in the second half, Minnesota was unable to create clear scoring chances, highlighting the need to attack better in tight spaces.

This defeat marked Minnesota's third consecutive loss against the top three teams in the Western Conference, raising questions about their competitiveness in critical matches.