Los Angeles FC 1-4 San Jose Earthquakes: Werner opens MLS account in statement win

Timo Werner scored his first MLS goal as the San Jose Earthquakes produced a statement 4-1 victory over Los Angeles FC.

The German striker scored and assisted in a thrilling second half, where Ousseni Bouda also scored a brace as the Earthquakes silenced the home fans at BMO Stadium.

Despite it being a quiet first half, Bouda went close to scoring an opener inside 90 seconds after his first-time effort on the edge of the six-yard box was kept out by Hugo Lloris.

Son Heung-min almost got the better of Daniel with an audacious volley early in the second half, but it was San Jose who took the lead as Bouna converted from Werner’s low cross in the 53rd minute.

Werner then got on the scoresheet himself moments later, evading a challenge from Nkosi Tafari during a solo run before slotting into the bottom-right corner.

Preston Judd struck the woodwork with a curling effort from outside the box, but Ryan Porteous turned the ball into his own net 10 seconds later to make it 3-0 to the Earthquakes.

LAFC benefited from an own goal themselves, with Reid Roberts sliding past his own goalkeeper, though Bouda wrapped up the victory in the 80th minute as San Jose moved level on points with Western Conference leaders the Vancouver Whitecaps.

WHAT A SUNDAY pic.twitter.com/sYYGj4Ol27

— San Jose Earthquakes (@SJEarthquakes) April 20, 2026

Data Debrief: Earthquakes end LAFC hoodoo

Although LAFC attempted more shots (16 to nine), the Earthquakes registered more expected goals (xG – 2 to 1.29) and shots on target (five to three).

Werner, who is still getting back to full fitness, impressed for San Jose before being replaced in the 76th minute.

Along with his goal and assists, Werner led his side for touches in the box (six), created the second-most chances (two) and won three of his seven duels.

This was San Jose’s first win over LAFC since May 2024, ending a run of five straight losses in all competitions.