The LA Galaxy's 2-1 win over Austin FC at Dignity Health Sports Park cements them as one of the top challengers in the MLS Western Conference. But beyond the three points that kept them at the top, this game told a much bigger story. It spoke of Galaxy strength-a dominance at home-and of course, the undeniable impact of players such as Gabriel Pec and Dejan Joveljić.
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Resilience full circle
The first half for the Galaxy was textbook. A well-disciplined team with Riqui Puig setting the tone in midfield, Gabriel Pec doing precisely what you want from a top forward: finding the back of the net. In the 31st minute, Puig displayed his vision with a cross to Pec. Calm and calculated, Pec controlled the ball, outpaced the defender with ease, and finished it in the opposite corner of the net. This put not only the Galaxy ahead but boosted the team's confidence also. Pec in his first MLS season has been a beast on the field, gathering numbers that even harshest critics would be envious of. He has scored 15 goals so far, proving to be the Galaxy's standout forward thus far.
The win did not come without its scares, though. Austin FC came out with more energy early in the second half, and by the 55-minute mark, the visitors were level through a beautiful goal finished by Sebastian Driussi that Galaxy goalkeeper John McCarthy was in no position to react. The Galaxy defense was caught out for a moment, and Austin pounced. That equalizer woke up the home side, who, instead of continually faltering, saw the Galaxy again gain control.
Joveljić strikes again
While Pec may be the Galaxy's number one forwards, Dejan Joveljić is the one who delivers when it comes to crucial moments. In the 76 minute, with the match in the balance and Austin looking more likely to take the lead than the Galaxy, Joveljić did just that. It was, for the umpteenth time this season, the work of Riqui Puig who set it up, driving with calm intelligence before finding Joveljić stationed inside the box. The Serbian forward did what he does best: with finesse, he spun and shot left-footed into the top corner, leaving the keeper with no chance. A winning goal, three points secured, and the Galaxy remained at the top.
Another big game, another deciding moment for Joveljić. He scored four times and added three assists in six matches against Austin FC.
Unbeaten at home
With the win over Austin FC, the LA Galaxy also extended the undefeated streak at Dignity Health Sports Park throughout this entire 2024 regular season with a total of 13 wins and 3 draws at home. Besides, the Galaxy has been almost unbeatable at home, having secured 11 consecutive home victories with the support of their fans. This may come in handy during the playoffs. Having the home-field advantage in critical matches with an average attendance of over 26,000 fans per game will definitely be a huge plus for the Galaxy.
Puig and Pec: The Unstoppable Duo
It would not be possible to speak about LA Galaxy's success this season without mentioning the duo formed by Gabriel Pec and Riqui Puig. Between them, they have contributed an astonishing 29 goal contributions apiece this season, a class of legends considering Robbie Keane and Landon Donovan did the same in 2014. The only thing anyone can do is speculate about the chemistry the two have both on and off the pitch, but their partnership has driven the Galaxy's offensive machine. Whether it be creating chances, finishing plays, or simply moving the defense around, these two have been the key difference-makers.
Eyes on the playoffs and the cup
With this win, the Galaxy secured their spot at the top of the Western Conference, but the mission isn't complete yet. With one game remaining, away, against the Houston Dynamo, the Galaxy needs a win to seal the deal for home-field advantage all the way to the MLS Cup final. Of course, if LAFC stumbles in their next match, the Galaxy's lead would already be sewn up. But regardless, one thing is clear: win the MLS Cup and crown what has been an almost perfect season.