Olivier Giroud leads LAFC to victory in the US Open Cup final against Sporting Kansas City

Former Arsenal and Chelsea striker Olivier Giroud scored and Los Angeles FC won the US Open Cup with a 3-1 win over Sporting Kansas City.

The 37-year-old, who joined the west coast club after leaving AC Milan at the end of last season, headed in from close range to give his team the lead in the 53rd minute.

Kansas City’s Erik Thommy equalized and forced the game into overtime, where Mexican defender Omar Campos and Sierra Leonean striker Kei Kamara sealed the victory with goals.

For Giroud, who ended his career as France’s record goalscorer with 57 goals in July, this was of great significance following the Leagues Cup final defeat to Columbus Crew in August.

“I came here to win trophies and play in a final like this,” Giroud said.

“I was really sad and disappointed for the team regarding the Leagues Cup.

“We’ve had a difficult period in recent weeks, but we stuck together and really wanted to win this trophy for the fans and the club. It’s important for me and the boys and I’m so happy to have scored a goal in this final and helped the team.”

The victory keeps LAFC’s hopes of winning the national championship and cup double alive.

Only three teams have achieved the double: LA Galaxy did it in 2005, after Chicago Fire and DC United had already achieved this feat.

LAFC is fourth in the MLS Western Conference standings and is expected to secure a spot in the playoffs.