LA Galaxy lets victory slip away against New York City in their MLS debut
The Los Angeles team was winning from the 2nd minute, but a penalty and the expulsion of Carlos Garces made it 1-1
LA Galaxy started the 2026 MLS season with mixed feelings after drawing 1-1 against New York City FC in the first match. The Los Angeles team took the lead in the opening seconds of the match, but failed to hold onto their advantage and ended up dropping points at home. After a disappointing 2025 season—in which they finished second to last with just seven wins after being champions the previous year—the Galaxy were looking to start the new Major League Soccer campaign with a victory that would send a clear message. Joao Klauss's lightning-fast goal gives the Galaxy hope. The match couldn't have started better for the LA Galaxy. At 87 seconds, Brazilian Joao Klaus capitalized on an early attacking move to make it 1-0, unleashing euphoria in the stadium and giving the impression that the team had put the ghosts of last season behind them. The early goal allowed the Galaxy to control the tempo for several stretches of the first half, although they were unable to extend their lead against a competitive New York City FC. The turning point came in the 63rd minute. Argentinian Nicolas Fernandez anticipated Carlos Garces in the box, who brought him down while challenging for a through ball. After reviewing the play, the referee awarded a penalty and showed Garces his second yellow card, leaving the LA Galaxy with ten men at a crucial moment in the match. Three minutes later, Fernandez converted from the penalty spot to make it 1-1, complicating their opening game. of the Los Angeles team in MLS 2026.
Galaxy adds points, but raises doubts again
The draw leaves a bittersweet taste for LA Galaxy. While they showed strength at the start and stretches of good play, the sending-off and lack of control at key moments took their toll once again.
In a league as competitive as MLS, dropping points at home can be costly in the long run.
The Galaxy will need to tighten up defensively and improve their game management if they want to return to the top. For now, the 1-1 draw against New York City FC makes it clear that the rebuilding process for the historic Los Angeles club is still underway.