In his short time in Major League Soccer, Son Heung-min has already left an indelible mark. With 10 goals and 4 assists in just 12 appearances, and another goal plus an assist in LAFC’s latest playoff triumph over Austin FC, the Korean star is redefining what it means to be a franchise player in MLS.
But beyond the numbers lies a deeper tactical transformation — a strategic shift that has elevated LAFC’s attack and stabilized their playoff ambitions. Let’s dive into the three key tactical evolutions driving LAFC’s success and how Son’s arrival has reshaped the team’s identity.
Positional Fluidity Beyond the “False 9”
The most striking change came in Son’s role during the second-leg playoff against Austin FC. While officially deployed as a center forward, Son rarely stayed fixed in traditional No.9 territory.
Instead, he dropped deep to link play like a False 9, often drifting left to interchange with Denis Bouanga, creating fluid attacking rotations. The opening goal perfectly illustrated this: Son began centrally, slipped into the left channel, and exploited the defensive gap with precision timing — a move that broke Austin’s defensive shape entirely.
This positional freedom maximized Son’s dual threat — his sharp finishing and visionary passing — while confusing defenders who struggled to decide whether to track or hold position. Every time a center-back followed Son into midfield, space opened up behind, which LAFC’s midfielders readily exploited.
In essence, Son wasn’t just a scorer; he was a tactical disruptor, reshaping defensive lines and dictating tempo through movement.
Yoris’ Leadership and Defensive Maturity: Entering “Playoff Mode”
Equally pivotal was the stabilization of LAFC’s defense, anchored by Hugo Lloris. The veteran goalkeeper’s composure provided the team with much-needed psychological balance, especially in high-pressure playoff moments.
His crucial penalty save in the first half not only preserved the lead but also galvanized the entire backline. LAFC alternated between a 4-3-3 and a compact 4-4-2, with attackers like Son and Bouanga diligently dropping back to form a dense mid-block when needed.
This commitment to collective defending nullified Austin’s counterattacks and underscored LAFC’s evolution into a more balanced, playoff-ready side. The sight of Son — a global superstar — tracking back and pressing in midfield exemplified the team-first mentality now embedded in the squad.
The “Heung-Bou” Duo: Chemistry Meets Efficiency
The synergy between Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga, nicknamed the “Heung-Bou Duo,” has been electric. Their connection thrives on unselfishness and precision.
A prime example came just minutes after Son’s opener — instead of shooting from a tight angle, he drew the keeper’s attention and squared a perfect assist to Bouanga, who converted with ease. That selfless play not only secured the goal but also showcased Son’s maturity and vision.
This mutual trust has diversified LAFC’s attacking options. By constantly rotating positions and sharing creative duties, they’ve made it nearly impossible for opposing defenses to settle. Rather than operating as two isolated finishers, they function as an interchangeable attacking engine, maximizing efficiency and unpredictability.
Long-Term Impact: The “Son Heung-min Effect”
Son’s arrival in MLS is more than a transfer — it’s a transformational influence on the league. His professionalism, work ethic, and world-class execution have elevated the expectations within LAFC and across the MLS landscape.
Looking ahead, LAFC’s upcoming playoff clash against Thomas Müller’s Vancouver Whitecaps is set to be a marquee matchup — a collision of European pedigree on American soil that underscores MLS’s growing global appeal.
Ultimately, LAFC’s acquisition of Son has delivered more than goals. It’s brought tactical flexibility, leadership, and elite mentality — the hallmarks of a championship team. As Son continues to thrive, LAFC’s pursuit of the title looks more legitimate than ever.