Riqui Puig delivered an outstanding performance for the LA Galaxy as they defeated Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) with a score of 2-1 in the highly anticipated El Trafico rivalry match. The game took place at the Rose Bowl and set a new MLS record attendance with 82,110 fans in attendance.
Puig, a Spanish midfielder, contributed a goal and an assist in the match. He assisted Tyler Boyd’s goal in the 26th minute and then scored the go-ahead goal in the 73rd minute. Puig, who previously played for Barcelona, expressed his excitement about playing in big games with pressure and a passionate fan base.
The victory marked the Galaxy’s sixth consecutive match without a loss, including two wins and four draws. Puig’s performance was crucial for the team, especially after their disappointing start to the season. With star player Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez out due to season-ending knee surgery, Puig is seen as the Galaxy’s top scoring threat.
LAFC managed to score one goal in the 57th minute through Ilie Sanchez but ultimately fell short. The defending MLS Cup champions have struggled recently, losing three consecutive matches and five out of their last seven.
The game showcased an incredible atmosphere and marked the return of the Galaxy to the Rose Bowl, which was their home stadium from 1996 to 2002 before they moved to their current stadium. Coach Greg Vanney, a former player during the Galaxy’s early years, expressed his nostalgia and recognized the growth of the league with the record-breaking attendance.
Both teams acknowledged the significance of the match and the passionate rivalry between them. LAFC is currently tied with the Seattle Sounders for second place in the Western Conference and trails the surprising St. Louis FC by three points.
Despite the intense competition, the match was celebrated for its excitement and passion, even though the quality of the football may have been less than perfect. Both coaches, Vanney and LAFC’s Steve Cherundolo, acknowledged the significance of the game and the disappointment of not securing a victory.
Photo credit – MLSSoccer.com / Pasadena, CA
