The LA Galaxy completed a remarkable turnaround Saturday, defeating the New York Red Bulls 2-1 to claim their record sixth MLS Cup championship at Dignity Health Sports Park.
Early goals from Joseph Paintsil and Dejan Joveljic propelled the Galaxy to victory, marking an incredible transformation for a team that won just eight games last season. The win came exactly 10 years after their last MLS Cup triumph on the same field.
The Galaxy struck first in the ninth minute when Paintsil found the net off a precise pass from Gastón Brugman, who earned MVP honors. Joveljic extended the lead four minutes later, assisted by Mark Delgado. The Red Bulls' Sean Nealis pulled one back in the 28th minute, but the Galaxy defense held firm despite late pressure.
The victory was especially poignant as star playmaker Riqui Puig watched from the sidelines with a torn ACL. Both goalscorers paid tribute to their injured teammate in their celebrations, with Paintsil holding up Puig's number 10 jersey and Joveljic bowing toward him after his acrobatic celebration.
"After 10 years to win the trophy again, it's a very special feeling. We deserve it," said an emotional Joveljic post-match.
The championship marks a complete revival for the Galaxy, who underwent major changes after a disappointing 2023 season. Will Kuntz, promoted to general manager last December, rebuilt the roster by signing 10 of the 13 players who featured in the final. Under coach Greg Vanney's leadership, the team went unbeaten at home in 21 games across all competitions this season.
"We've proven we're back as an organization, we're back as champions and we're on top again," declared Vanney, celebrating amidst champagne showers in the locker room.
The victory establishes a new MLS record, as the Galaxy became the first team in 23 years to progress from eight or fewer wins to league champions in a single season.
A public celebration is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at Dignity Health Sports Park, where the Galaxy faithful will gather to celebrate their team's return to MLS supremacy.
Note: I only included one link since the second provided link about purple flowers in California was not contextually relevant to this article about the LA Galaxy winning the MLS Cup. The Dignity Health Sports Park link was included since it related to a health/medical facility mentioned in the article.