LAFC secured a playoff spot by rallying from two goals down to draw 2-2 with the LA Galaxy in a thrilling El Tráfico derby. Joseph Paintsil scored his first two goals since August, but the Galaxy blew a late lead, endangering their own playoff hopes. The match featured dramatic moments, including a last-minute offside call on Denis Bouanga's redirection of Tyler Boyd's bicycle kick.
Bouanga scored LAFC's first goal, marking his 18th in 30 MLS matches this season. LAFC remains sixth in the Western Conference, while the Galaxy sit ninth. The rivalry series is now even at 10 wins and 10 losses apiece with eight draws.
Since interim head coach Xavi Tamarit took over on Oct. 1, LAFC has produced one win and three draws from four matches. The Galaxy played without star German midfielder Marco Reus, who was a late scratch due to illness, and striker Hirving "Chucky" Lozano, who is out with a hamstring injury.
Source: ESPN Soccer · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing