In an electrifying match at the BMO Stadium, Los Angeles FC fought back to draw 3-3 against LA Galaxy, marking an unforgettable sixth edition of the Tráfico rivalry. Denis Bouanga shone for LAFC, scoring two goals, while the Galaxy’s Gabriel Pec netted twice and Maya Yoshida added another to ensure they salvaged a point.
LAFC took the lead with a goal from Bouanga in the 25th minute, followed shortly by Javairo Dilrosun, who found the net in the 30th minute. However, the Galaxy refused to be outdone, with Pec converting a penalty just before halftime at the 35th minute. The Galaxy equalized again in the 51st minute through Yoshida, before Bouanga managed to score again to help LAFC draw level.
Denis Bouanga was undoubtedly the star of the match, impressively converting two goals from three shots on target. On the defensive front, Maya Yoshida stood out for LA Galaxy, contributing significantly with a goal and five crucial clearances.
One of the highlights of the match came when Bouanga skillfully dribbled past his marker with a nutmeg in the 45th minute of the first half, showcasing his incredible talent.
LAFC’s head coach, Steve Cherundolo, implemented a 4-3-3 formation with Hugo Lloris in goal, supported by defenders Sergi Palencia, Nkosi Tafari, Eddie Segura, and Ryan Hollingshead. The midfield consisted of Timothy Tillman, Igor Jesus, and Mark Delgado, with Bouanga, Nathan Ordaz, and Javairo Dilrosun leading the attack.
Conversely, LA Galaxy, managed by Greg Vanney, also opted for a 4-3-3 setup, featuring Novak Micovic as their goalkeeper, with Miki Yamane, Emiro Garcés, Maya Yoshida, and Julián Aude forming the defense. Their midfield comprised Marco Reus, Edwin Cerrillo, and Lucas Sanabria, while the front line included Gabriel Pec, Matheus Nascimento, and Joseph Paintsil.
Guido Gonzales Jr. officiated the match, which was marked by intense play and fervent rivalry. Following this thrilling draw, LAFC will now prepare for their next home fixture against Toronto FC, while LA Galaxy heads to Houston for their upcoming match.
Substitutions for LAFC
75’ 2T – Mark Delgado left for Frankie Amaya and Nathan Ordaz was substituted by Jeremy Ebobisse.
83’ 2T – Javairo Dilrosun was replaced by David Martínez and Denis Bouanga exited for Yaw Yeboah.
88’ 2T – Timothy Tillman was substituted by Artem Smoliakov.
Cautions for LAFC
38’ 1T – Sergi Palencia (Repeated fouls), 15’ 2T – Timothy Tillman (Unsporting behavior), 50’ 2T – Hugo Lloris (Delay of game).
Red Card for LAFC
45’ 2T – Eddie Segura (Direct red).
Substitutions for LA Galaxy
45’ 2T – Lucas Sanabria was replaced by Diego Fagúndez.
80’ 2T – Julián Aude left for John Nelson, Matheus Nascimento for Christian Ramírez, Miki Yamane for Mauricio Cuevas, and Edwin Cerrillo for Isaiah Parente.
Cautions for LA Galaxy
45’ 1T – Lucas Sanabria (Unsporting behavior), 45’ 2T – Mauricio Cuevas (Unsporting behavior), 45’ 2T – Diego Fagúndez (Unsporting behavior), 47’ 2T – Gabriel Pec (Unsporting behavior).