LAFC, without seven of their usual starters, ruined the afternoon of Colombian James Rodriguez's first start with Minnesota United by winning 0-1 with a goal from Venezuelan David Martinez, which allowed them to be ready for the midweek match against Toluca in the Concacaf Champions League.

The contest was decided early, when in the ninth minute a play involving Stephen Eustaquio, David Martinez, and Timmy Tillman allowed the Venezuelan Martinez to finish with a shot from a tight angle, but he managed to find the back of the net in a spectacular goal.

For Martinez, it was his third MLS goal at just 20 years old and his seventh in all competitions this year. The Venezuelan striker has established himself as a respected goalscorer for his team.

Meanwhile, James, a key figure in Minnesota's attacking plays,LAFC had a chance to equalize in the 29th minute when they sent in a cross to Jefferson Diaz, who headed it towards goal, but in the end, Tillman made a crucial save, preventing the ball from entering his net after goalkeeper Hugo Lloris had come out of position. LAFC will now face Toluca on Wednesday, April 29th at BMO Stadium in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions League semifinals. It appears the Mexican team won't have it easy, but everything depends on them taking advantage of Toluca being without their international players.