LAFC Countdown to Kickoff

On the latest episode of Countdown To Kickoff presented by BMO, Mario Ruiz is joined by Son Heung-min for an exclusive conversation about the excitement of preparing for his fourth World Cup, LAFC’s upcoming showdown with Seattle, and much more. Mario also previews LAFC’s final MLS match before the league pauses for the World Cup break, as the Black & Gold look to head into the break with momentum. Plus, Canadian international and LAFC midfielder Mathieu Choinière sits down with Mario to discuss what it means to have the World Cup coming to his home country of Canada. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mario Ruiz sits down with Nkosi Tafari to talk about the heartbreak of LAFC’s CONCACAF Champions Cup exit in Mexico and the challenge of quickly refocusing on MLS play. Then, Mario previews LAFC’s showdown with the Houston Dynamo at BMO Stadium as the Black & Gold look to respond on home soil. Plus, hear how the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup is already impacting everyday life in Mexico. It’s all on the latest episode of Countdown to Kickoff presented by BMO. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mario Ruiz is joined by LAFC Radio Voice Dave Denholm to relive some of his favorite moments in Black & Gold history, from iconic calls to unforgettable nights. Then, Mario sets the stage for a tough road test as LAFC heads to Minnesota United for a key Western Conference clash. With a massive CONCACAF Champions Cup Semifinal against Toluca just three days away, squad rotation and focus become major storylines. How will LAFC balance the present challenge with a huge opportunity looming on the horizon? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mario Ruiz sits down with LAFC midfielder Timothy Tillman to break down the dominant performance against Cruz Azul and what it means to advance to the Concacaf Champions Cup Semifinals. Hear Tillman’s insight on the squad’s form, confidence, and the challenges that lie ahead. Mario also previews LAFC’s upcoming MLS showdown against San Jose as the Black & Gold shift focus back to MLS play. Plus, a special treat for fans of Ronaldinho you won’t want to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mario Ruiz hosts a brand new episode of Countdown To Kickoff presented by BMO, diving into LAFC’s red-hot start to the season. He sits down with midfielder Mark Delgado to break down the club’s unbeaten nine-game run and an impressive stretch of five straight MLS shutouts. Mario also looks ahead to LAFC’s upcoming matchup against Orlando City at BMO Stadium and what challenges await. Plus, reaction to the latest international window, including performances from the USMNT and Team Mexico. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this episode of Countdown To Kickoff presented by BMO, host Mario Ruiz reacts to the news that Carlos Vela has joined the ownership group of Los Angeles Football Club, marking a historic full-circle moment for the club’s first superstar. Mario also previews LAFC’s matchup against St. Louis City SC at BMO Stadium with LAFC forward Nathan Ordaz. Then, Mario looks ahead to the home opener for Angel City FC with forward Riley Tiernan joining the show. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Countdown To Kickoff presented by BMO returns as host Mario Ruiz breaks down a high-flying start for LAFC — three wins and 10 goals through the first three matches of 2026. Mario sits down 1-on-1 with one of LAFC’s newest faces, Tyler Boyd, to discuss his early impact. The road gets tougher this week as LAFC heads to Texas for a Western Conference showdown with the Houston Dynamo. Plus, LAFC Co-President & General Manager John Thorrington joins the show to talk about the inspiration behind the club’s new Primary Kit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Countdown to Kickoff Presented by BMO on ESPNLA is getting you ready for every LAFC match with insight, access, and energy you won’t find anywhere else. Hosted by Mario Ruiz, this is your all-access pass to the Black & Gold. Countdown to Kickoff sets the stage with everything you need to know — from key matchups to storylines shaping the season. Mario brings you inside the locker room and onto the training pitch with exclusive interviews featuring LAFC players, coaches, and front office leaders. Countdown to Kickoff also brings you the latest surrounding Angel City FC, highlighting the biggest moments, player storylines, and what’s ahead for one of the most exciting clubs in the NWSL. From local soccer headlines to news from around the football globe, Mario Ruiz keeps you informed on all things soccer — right here in Los Angeles and beyond. If you bleed Black & Gold, follow Angel City, or simply love the beautiful game, this is your matchday soundtrack. Countdown to Kickoff Presented by BMO — only on ESPNLA. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices