2. LAFC are ruthless late in games
The first half was typical of whenever these two clubs meet. It was dramatic, hotly contested, fiery and full of brilliant attacking play at either end of the pitch. It seemed as though the back-and-forth flow would never end and another high-scoring thriller was on the cards. Not so.
More from MLS Multiplex
- Javier Milei Elected in Argentina: Potential Impacts on MLS and Signings of Argentine Players
- Orlando City and New York City FC in the Battle for Matías Arezo; Grêmio Enters Negotiations! Who Will Come Out on Top?
- USA, Honduras, Panama, and Canada Close in on a Spot in the 2024 Copa America
- De Gea Turns Down Al-Nassr’s Lucrative Offer: Speculation Points to Possible Reunion with Messi at Inter Miami
- Messi’s Magnetic Impact in the United States
Everything turned in the second half when Pavon’s goal was ruled out for an offside. LAFC proceeded to go down the field and score, Bradley Wright-Phillips producing a world-class finish for his second of the tournament. After that sequence, the Galaxy never found their way back into the match. LAFC’s quality and Rossi’s superb performance took over.
Even without Carlos Vela in the lineup, LAFC showed that they have some of the best attacking players in MLS. For the second consecutive match, they came alive in the second half to get a result. And the usual suspects were there right on cue with Rossi and Brian Rodriguez causing trouble on the wings.
A physical and alert Galaxy side in the first half was not able to replicate their performance. LAFC completely dominated the last half hour of this match. Their pace and possession-dominant style aid their performance in the latter stages of matches. As opposing defenses become fatigued due to chasing the ball for long periods, space opens up and LAFC’s quality in the final third comes to the fore. In the end, the Galaxy simply couldn’t hold down the Black and Gold for long enough.