LAFC Triumphs Over LA Galaxy in Thrilling 2-1 Victory at the Rose Bowl

LA Galaxy and LAFC players walking into the field photo by Gilbert Bita

In a highly anticipated crosstown showdown, LAFC emerged victorious against LA Galaxy with a 2-1 win at the Rose Bowl on the 4th of July. The match, which drew a record-breaking crowd of 70,076 fans, marked the 23rd edition of the rivalry between the two MLS giants.

The game started with both teams displaying intense energy and determination. LAFC's first breakthrough came in the 39th minute when Kei Kamara converted a header, giving LAFC the lead. The goal resulted from a perfectly executed cross, allowing Kamara to rise above the Galaxy defenders and head the ball past Galaxy goalkeeper Jonathan Bond.

Gabriel Pec frustrated Photo by Gilbert Bita

LA Galaxy struggled to find their rhythm in the first half, with noticeable frustration between players, particularly Gabriel Pec and Riqui Puig. Pec was visibly irritated with Puig for not finding him in key moments. Galaxy's coach addressed this in the post-match press conference, explaining, "Gabriel's frustration was with the group in general. He wants to attack, be aggressive, and play one-on-one. In the first half, our passes didn't translate into attacks. The tempo was off, and we missed key opportunities."

LA Galaxy fans excited for the game Photo by Gilbert Bita

The second half saw a rejuvenated LA Galaxy side, dominating the attack. Their persistence paid off in the 56th minute when Gabriel Pec received a pass from Yamane, skillfully maneuvered through LAFC's defenders, and sent the ball past LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris.

However, LAFC had extended their lead in the 44th minute with a penalty kick converted by Denis Bouanga. The penalty was awarded after a VAR review confirmed a foul inside the box. Bouanga's composed finish from the spot sealed the victory for LAFC.

Bouanga taking penalty kick against LA Galaxy Photo by William Ortiz

Earlier on both teams had their share of missed opportunities. LAFC's Eduard Atuesta hit the post early in the match, and Bouanga's brilliant dribbles were thwarted by former LAFC goalkeeper John McCarthy, now with LA Galaxy. Riqui Puig also tested Lloris with a powerful shot in the early moments of the first half.

The match concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, adding to the festive atmosphere of the Independence Day celebration. The attendance of 70,076 fans marked the 14th highest standalone regular season attendance in MLS history.

NEXT

Looking ahead, LA Galaxy will host Minnesota on July 7th, while LAFC will travel to face Houston Dynamo on the same day. As the rivalry continues to intensify, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in the LA Galaxy-LAFC saga.