It was a dream debut for Zlatan Ibrahimovic on Saturday afternoon in the first edition of the “El Trafico” announcing himself for all of MLS to see.
The biggest name to be signed in MLS this season put on a show for the whole world to see. In just 15 minutes, Zlatan Ibrahimovic showed he still has what it takes to make a difference for the LA Galaxy, scoring two top-class goals.
After taking a commanding 3-0 lead, it appeared that LAFC were well on their way to taking the derby match. Firmly in control, the newest club to join MLS quickly saw their lead vanquished.
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Fast forward to the 70th minute, Ibrahimovic comes on, making his MLS debut. The game changed. The Galaxy had just scored their first of the match in the 61st minute. Shortly after entering the match, Chris Pontius scores to make it 3-2.
Then, it was Ibrahimovic’s time to dictate the match.
His first goal was an absolutely top class goal. He punished LAFC goalkeeper David Bingham for playing up, by looping a shot over his head and into the back of the net.
AMAZING.#zLAtan#LAvLAFC https://t.co/xyk78K6xSr
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 31, 2018
At this point, Galaxy supporters had to be pleased with leaving the match with a point. However, Ibrahimovic was not done.
Ashley Cole sent in a cross to the striker in the 91st minute and Ibrahimovic made no mistake heading home the winner.
You couldn't write a better script.
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) March 31, 2018
ZLATAN. STOPPAGE TIME. 4-3. #LAvLAFC https://t.co/9ya60MdXk6
Ibrahimovic came on at the right time. Credit to Sigi Schmid for making the call to bring him on late in the second half. The momentum in the match immediately shifted when he came on. Once Pontius, scored it was game on. Zlatan answered the call.
Although this is the first match for Ibrahimovic, he is already paying dividends for the Galaxy and MLS as a whole. In just 15 minutes, he stole the headlines in the league for the weekend.
This performance is likely to be repeated this season. His eye for goal is undeniable and, if this is the kind of form he is in following injury, then one would think he has more to show.
Look for the Galaxy to use his presence in the box as often as possible. His size will be hard for most clubs to handle and every Galaxy supporter will be on the edge of the seats when a cross is sent into the box.
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Zlatan is unlike any player that MLS has seen before. The league will now have the wonderment of watching him each and every weekend.