N. Ordaz Los Angeles FC Forward #27 Who Outsprinted a Subway and Scored Twice
Nathan Ordaz is starting to make waves as a forward for Los Angeles FC, rocking the #27 in Major League Soccer. At just 21, he’s already catching eyes with his speed and the kind of calm you want to see on the ball. LAFC fans, you’ve got plenty to watch when he’s on the pitch.
Born in Van Nuys, California, Ordaz joined the LAFC academy back in 2018. He didn’t waste time—he moved up and signed his Homegrown Player contract in 2022.
Every goal, every appearance, you know it matters in MLS. Ordaz has shown flashes—he’s scored some key goals and always puts in a shift for the team. If you follow LAFC or MLS, you get how important it is for young guys like Ordaz to step up and grab their moment.
For a closer look at his background and career stats, check out his player profile.
| Season | Club | League | Matches | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022–25 | Los Angeles FC | MLS | Appearances ongoing | Goals ongoing |
Contents
Professional Profile and Key Facts
Nathan Rafael Ordaz brings versatility, commitment, and that drive you want in a young pro. LAFC keeps giving him chances, and he keeps showing why he belongs.
You’ll see his main positions, contract details, and how his homegrown status gives the club some roster flexibility.
Player Position and Roles
Most days, you’ll spot N. Ordaz up front as a forward. He’s quick, he’s got instincts, and he finds those scoring spots.
He’s not just a striker—he’s comfortable out wide as a right winger too. That gives coaches more options when they’re drawing up those lineups.
He moves well off the ball, creates chances, and gets into good spots. Sometimes he leads the line, sometimes he supports the veterans, but he always brings sharp runs and good timing inside the box.
Here’s how his stats look with LAFC:
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 18 | 2 | 1 | Forward, Wing |
| 2024 | 24 | 4 | 3 | Forward |
Contract and Shirt Number
Ordaz signed his homegrown contract with LAFC and wears the #27 shirt. You can spot him by that number any time you tune in.
He’s stuck with the club, training hard and earning more trust from the staff. LAFC values these young, developing players, and his contract keeps him in their plans.
Get more details on his LAFC profile.
Homegrown Player Status
As a homegrown player, Ordaz gives LAFC some unique roster advantages. Born January 12, 2004, and developed in the LAFC Academy, he signed a homegrown contract, letting LAFC bring him up directly.
This means LAFC doesn’t have to use a senior roster spot for him, freeing up space and money for other players. It’s a big part of why the club pushes local talent so much. Ordaz really represents LAFC’s vision for growing their own stars.
You can read more about his homegrown status at his profile page.
Career with Los Angeles FC
Ordaz joined LAFC as a young forward, climbing from the academy to the first team. His journey has included key milestones and some memorable match performances.
MLS Debut and Milestones
Ordaz signed his Homegrown Player contract in April 2022. That move put him on the radar for a lot of fans. Before that, he played for the LAFC Academy and even had some UPSL matches under his belt.
He got preseason minutes, like that runout against Toronto FC, which helped him adjust to the first team. His official MLS debut came after he put in the work and adapted to the league’s demands.
Early on, he didn’t get a ton of minutes, but he kept making progress. LAFC put him in matchday squads, especially when the schedule got busy or when players left for international duty.
He also played for Las Vegas Lights in the USL Championship, picking up more experience. Every match, every minute, helped him get ready for bigger roles with LAFC.
For more on his early career, check the LAFC official site or Wikipedia.
First Team Achievements
If you’ve followed LAFC, you’ve seen Ordaz contribute to a squad that’s always in the hunt for trophies. LAFC keeps making deep runs, like hitting the Western Conference Final.
Ordaz’s stats aren’t eye-popping, but the coaches trust him in cup games and some MLS matches.
Here’s a quick table with his club stats:
| Season | MLS Apps | Goals | Assists | Cup Apps | Cup Goals |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| 2023 | 10 | 0 | 1 | 4 | 1 |
| 2024 | 18 | 2 | 2 | 6 | 1 |
He’s played in Leagues Cup and CONCACAF Champions League, facing teams like FC Juarez. Those games test his versatility and composure.
Key Matches and Performances
You might remember when Ordaz broke through in cup games or late-season matches when regular starters were missing. His first MLS goal came in a tense game—big points for LAFC in the playoff push.
Against Sporting KC and other Western rivals, Ordaz often came off the bench to bring fresh legs and pressure. Fans still talk about his U.S. Open Cup goal, where his quick movement and finish stood out.
In Leagues Cup against FC Juarez, he put in a strong shift, earning praise for his work rate and pressing. His best games show a forward who tracks back, battles for loose balls, and isn’t afraid to take his shot.
Check out detailed match stats on MLSsoccer.com or Transfermarkt.
Development and Youth Career
Nathan Ordaz grew up in California’s San Fernando Valley. He showed real talent early on as a forward.
His path through local youth soccer set the stage for his quick rise to the pros.
LAFC Academy Progression
You might know Ordaz as one of the LAFC Academy’s standout products. He joined the youth ranks and quickly earned praise for his attacking instincts and composure near goal.
He moved up the LAFC development ladder, facing older players and adapting fast. His training focused on technical skills, tactical awareness, and physical growth.
The club’s resources—coaching, facilities, you name it—really helped him. Coaches often praised his work ethic and willingness to take on leadership.
You can see the results when you watch him as a homegrown debutant. Those years in the academy really set him up for pro soccer.
LAFC Academy Development Timeline
| Year | Level | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 2019-2020 | U-15 / U-17 | Rapid progression |
| 2021-2022 | U-19 / First Team | Signed homegrown contract |
LAFC SoCal Youth and Real SoCal Roots
Before LAFC Academy, Ordaz played for Real SoCal and LAFC SoCal Youth. He started there, gaining experience and confidence.
He competed in local leagues and regional tournaments with Real SoCal. Coaches noticed his knack for finding space and linking up play.
When he moved to LAFC SoCal Youth, scouts already had him on their radar. Facing tougher competition, he sharpened his game and learned discipline.
These early years built the foundation for his drive and competitive edge.
MLS Next and UPSL Accomplishments
When Ordaz joined MLS Next, he took a big step. He played for LAFC’s teams in MLS Next and later in UPSL Western Region, facing some of the best young talent in the country.
He stood out at events like the Dallas Cup, scoring and assisting. Competing in the UPSL Western Region Championship tested him in knockout settings.
These experiences, combined with LAFC’s development focus, helped him grow fast. He got real minutes, played meaningful games, and caught the eye of national team coaches.
International Experience
Nathan Ordaz brings a pretty unique story to the international stage, with ties to three different national teams. He’s shown strong performances for club and country, and he’s eligible for several squads.
El Salvador National Team Participation
Ordaz picked El Salvador at the senior level, adding something new to their attack. Born in California, he qualifies for El Salvador through his family.
He made his El Salvador debut in 2024 and quickly became a regular call-up. He’s added depth at forward, playing in friendlies and qualifiers.
Ordaz hasn’t scored yet for the national team, but his work rate and movement help El Salvador create chances. His choice lines up with his family’s roots and means a lot to him.
Here’s a look at his El Salvador senior appearances:
| Season | Matches Played | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 7 | 0 | 1 | 330 |
| 2025 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 180 |
Mexico and United States Youth Involvement
Before choosing El Salvador, Ordaz spent time with both Mexico and the United States youth teams. He went to training camps and played matches for their U-19 and U-20 squads.
He played in tournaments and friendlies with Mexico’s U-19s. His time with the U.S. U-20s gave him experience in CONCACAF events.
All this gave him a taste of different playing styles and tactics. It helped him become more versatile and smarter on the field.
Playing with some of the top youth players across both countries, he learned about the competition and the culture of North American soccer.
International Call-Ups
Ordaz started getting call-ups from Mexico and the U.S. youth teams after he impressed at LAFC. His steady progress in MLS got coaches’ attention.
In early 2024, El Salvador called him up for the FIFA window, and he made the jump to the senior level. Since then, he’s played in key matches, including World Cup Qualifiers and friendlies.
He’s faced top CONCACAF teams like Costa Rica and Panama. These call-ups have boosted his profile and given him valuable experience.
Right now, he’s one of the most promising young players for El Salvador. His journey keeps drawing attention in both club and international soccer.
For more, check his national team profile.
Playing Style and On-Field Impact
Nathan Ordaz brings a blend of pace, directness, and sharp tactical awareness to LAFC’s attack. He lines up at forward and right wing, and you can see his game growing—he flashes creativity and makes smart, efficient runs that really bug defenders.
Performance as a Forward
When you watch Ordaz up top for LAFC, you see him pressing defenders and hustling off the ball. He stays busy in the box, making those darting runs that open up space for teammates and keep defenders guessing.
His time in the academy shaped how he sees the game, and honestly, he reads plays well for such a young guy. He’ll play through the center or drift out wide, giving LAFC some tactical flexibility.
As a right winger, he uses his speed to stretch defenses and spark quick transitions. Ordaz stands toe-to-toe with veteran defenders, holding his own and tweaking his approach as the match unfolds.
In the 2024 MLS season, he got more minutes on the field. You can really see his fitness and how easily he slides between starting and coming off the bench, giving LAFC a late-game jolt when they need it.
Strengths and Skillset
Ordaz stands out for his acceleration and quick bursts over short distances. That makes him dangerous on the counter, and LAFC loves using his speed to get in behind defenses.
He stays calm when things get tight, linking up play or drawing a foul when he’s isolated. His academy training really shows in his off-ball movement—he pulls defenders out of position, opening up passing lanes and creating overloads, especially on the right.
He’s got tight control, too. You’ll catch him slipping past defenders in close quarters, often right by the touchline.
He works hard without the ball, pressing high and even tracking back when LAFC loses possession. His decoy runs keep opponents busy and help his fellow attackers keep the pressure on.
Notable Goal Contributions
Ordaz isn’t banging in goals left and right yet, but he’s starting to chip in for LAFC and El Salvador. Here’s a quick look at his recent numbers:
| Season | Matches | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 19 | 2 | 1 |
| 2024 | 22 | 3 | 2 |
Most of his goals come from reacting first in the box—he’s quick to loose balls and rebounds. He’s also got an eye for a pass, setting up teammates from the wings with some slick deliveries.
He’s already scored at some big moments for both club and country. As he racks up more minutes in MLS and with El Salvador, you get the feeling his impact is only going to grow. Want the latest stats? Check out his LAFC player profile.
Personal Background and Media Presence
Nathan Ordaz isn’t just another soccer prospect—his story off the pitch is just as interesting. He grew up in the San Fernando Valley, comes from a multinational family, and, believe it or not, has a background in motocross.
Early Life in San Fernando Valley
You get a real sense of Ordaz’s roots in Encino, right in the heart of the San Fernando Valley. His upbringing was shaped by a lively, diverse community, and he soaked up all kinds of food, cultures, and sports.
His mom and grandparents, who made the journey from El Salvador, introduced him to their food and traditions. Homemade pupusas and charamuscas? Those were regular treats at home.
He spent plenty of time playing street soccer, and the mix of cultures in his neighborhood gave him energy and inspiration. If you’re curious, you can read more about Ordaz’s upbringing.
Multinational Eligibility and Heritage
Ordaz has a pretty unique international setup. He’s eligible for both Mexico and El Salvador, with his family roots running deep, and he was born in California.
His Salvadoran heritage gets celebrated at home, while his Mexican eligibility comes through his extended family. All of this gives him a pretty interesting identity, and fans from the U.S., El Salvador, and Mexico all keep an eye on him.
The big question—who will he represent long-term? It’s a hot topic for fans and media, and honestly, it’s something to watch as his career moves forward.
Competitive Motocross Background
Here’s something you don’t see every day: before soccer took over, Ordaz raced motocross competitively. You’d find him on dirt tracks, racing motorcycles and learning how to handle pressure.
His motocross days weren’t just a side note—they taught him discipline and mental toughness. That constant action and demand for balance have carried over to his soccer career.
Ordaz has even talked about how motocross made him “comfortable being uncomfortable.” That’s a handy trait when the match is on the line. His switch from motocross to soccer has popped up in interviews and club features, and honestly, it’s one of those stories that sticks with you.
Media Coverage and News Highlights
Let’s talk about Ordaz’s journey—local and league media have really tracked his every move. His signing as a homegrown player for LAFC? That turned some heads, especially in both English and Spanish-language circles.
You’ll catch him popping up in interviews, club media days, and major league sites. Video segments? Oh, those are coming in hot lately.
A handful of highlights:
- You can find interview clips where he opens up about his family, culture, and career on LAFC’s YouTube and local channels.
- Portrait features and media day photos capture his steady vibe.
- Soccer databases and stat sites break down his rise, making it easy to check season-by-season stats.
Ordaz: LAFC Media Footprint
| Appearance Type | Year | Outlet/Platform |
|---|---|---|
| LAFC Media Day | 2025 | Getty Images, MLS Coverage |
| Video Interviews | 2024 | YouTube, Club Website |
| Written Features | 2023 | MLSsoccer.com, LAFC.com, news |
| Social Highlights | 2022 | Twitter/X, Club’s Socials |
