Sat Aug 02 01:40:00 UTC 2025: **Here’s a summary of the text:**

LAFC faces a must-win situation against Pachuca in the Leagues Cup after a disappointing penalty shootout loss to Mazatlán. Only four teams from both MLS and Liga MX advance, making every match crucial. LAFC needs to secure a victory to keep their qualification hopes alive. Pachuca, boosted by their win against San Diego, presents a tough challenge. Both teams are looking to improve their performance compared to their recent appearances in the Club World Cup.

**Here’s the text rewritten as a news article:**

**LAFC Faces Must-Win Leagues Cup Clash Against Pachuca After Penalty Heartbreak**

**LOS ANGELES** – LAFC’s Leagues Cup hopes hang in the balance as they prepare to face Liga MX’s Pachuca at BMO Stadium this Friday (7:30 p.m., Apple TV). The urgency stems from a painful penalty shootout loss to Mazatlán after a 1-1 draw in their tournament debut, a match that saw star striker Denis Bouanga miss the decisive spot-kick.

With only the top four MLS and Liga MX teams advancing to the quarterfinals, every match is a high-stakes affair. “He’s definitely angry about missing that penalty, but hopefully, that will help us face Pachuca tomorrow,” said LAFC midfielder Timothy Tillman, highlighting the team’s determination to bounce back.

LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo is expected to field a strong starting lineup after resting key players in the first half against Mazatlán. “We are going to have players who are fresher and who will play, to give LAFC a chance to win this time,” Cherundolo stated, emphasizing that he felt the team’s overall performance wasn’t poor despite the loss.

Pachuca, on the other hand, comes into the game with momentum after a 3-2 victory against San Diego, fueled by a brace from striker Alexei Domínguez. A win against LAFC would put them in a strong position to advance.

“We are in a good moment and we want to take advantage of it,” said Pachuca coach Jimmy Lozano. “LAFC has great individuals and plays with a lot of intensity. They are a very different rival than the one we faced in San Diego.”

Both teams have recent experience on the international stage, having participated in the Club World Cup, although neither team found much success. LAFC will be looking to translate their MLS form into Leagues Cup success, starting with a crucial victory over Pachuca this Friday.

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