In an impressive display during Week 19 of the MLS, LA Galaxy defeated Vancouver Whitecaps FC 3-0, thanks to a remarkable performance by forward Joseph Paintsil, who scored two crucial goals in the second half (14’ and 31’). His two strikes not only showcased his skill but also his poise under pressure as he dispatched a beautiful play and converted a penalty with precision.
Adding to the triumph, Matheus Nascimento opened the scoring early with a stunning goal just one minute into the match. After a brilliant solo effort on the right flank, Nascimento placed the ball in the bottom right corner, leaving the goalkeeper with no chance.
Joseph Paintsil’s standout performance earned him the title of Man of the Match as he took 5 shots on goal, demonstrating his attacking prowess throughout the encounter. On the other end of the pitch, defender Maya Yoshida’s presence was key for LA Galaxy, helping to maintain a solid defensive front.
LA Galaxy’s Gabriel Pec also made headlines with a remarkable nutmeg on Vancouver’s Jean-Claude Ngando in the 68th minute, adding flair to the already exciting match.
Head Coach Greg Vanney implemented an effective 4-3-3 formation, featuring Novak Micovic in goal; Miki Yamane, Maya Yoshida, Emiro Garcés, and Julián Aude in defense; Edwin Cerrillo, Marco Reus, and Diego Fagúndez in midfield; and up front, Gabriel Pec, Matheus Nascimento, and Joseph Paintsil.
Vancouver, managed by Jesper Sorensen, also lined up in a 4-3-3 formation. Yohei Takaoka guarded the net, and their defensive line included Mathías Laborda, Tristan Blackmon, Ranko Veselinovic, and Tate Johnson, while Jean-Claude Ngando, Pedro Vite, and Jeevan Badwal operated in midfield. Edier Ocampo, Daniel Rios, and Emmanuel Sabbi led the attack.
Referee Víctor Rivas oversaw the match at Dignity Health Sports Park. For the next round, LA Galaxy will host DC United, while Vancouver will travel to face the Colorado Rapids.
Substitutions for LA Galaxy
77’ 2T – Matheus Nascimento off for Lucas Sanabria
78’ 2T – Julián Aude off for John Nelson, Miki Yamane off for Mauricio Cuevas
86’ 2T – Marco Reus off for Christian Ramírez
89’ 2T – Diego Fagúndez off for Isaiah Parente.
Yellow Card for LA Galaxy:
17’ 1T – Matheus Nascimento (Unsporting conduct)
Substitutions for Vancouver Whitecaps FC
45’ 2T – Mathías Laborda off for Jayden Nelson
82’ 2T – Daniel Rios off for Nelson Pierre, Jean-Claude Ngando off for Bjorn Utvik.
Yellow Cards for Vancouver Whitecaps FC:
34’ 1T – Mathías Laborda (Unsporting conduct), 9’ 2T – Jayden Nelson (Unsporting conduct), 26’ 2T – Edier Ocampo (Reiteration of fouls), 28’ 2T – Ranko Veselinovic (Unsporting conduct), 40’ 2T – Bjorn Utvik (Unsporting conduct).
Red Card for Vancouver Whitecaps FC:
46’ 2T – Jayden Nelson (Red for second yellow)