Latino fans turn LA clásico into a fútbol fiesta

The latest LA clásico wasn't just another MLS match – it felt like a Copa América night transplanted into Southern California. Hours before kickoff, parking lots around the stadium were filled with carne asada grills, Spanish-language music, and families wearing both LA Galaxy and LAFC jerseys.

For many US Hispanic fans, the clásico is more than a game. It's a chance to celebrate culture, language, and comunidad in one place. "Here I feel like home," said Juan, a first-generation fan who grew up watching Liga MX with his dad.

Inside the stadium, the atmosphere felt closer to a clásico Regio or a Superclásico in Argentina than a typical American sporting event. Chant leaders switched naturally between English and Spanish, mixing "Let's go" with "sí se puede" and "ole, ole, ole".

MLS clubs are increasingly recognizing this passion. Both teams have invested in Spanish-language content, Latino community nights, and partnerships with Hispanic media.

If the league wants to keep growing, tapping into this corazón Latino may be one of its biggest competitive advantages in the U.S. sports landscape.