Galaxy Clinch Sixth MLS Cup with 2-1 Triumph Over Red Bulls

Early Goals Propel LA to Victory

CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy have returned to the pinnacle of Major League Soccer, securing their sixth MLS Cup title with a 2-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls on Saturday afternoon at Dignity Health Sports Park. The triumph solidifies their position as the league’s most decorated team, extending their record for MLS Cup wins.

The Galaxy wasted no time asserting their dominance, scoring twice within the first 15 minutes of play. Joseph Paintsil opened the scoring in the 9th minute, followed swiftly by Dejan Joveljić’s strike in the 13th minute. Both players paid tribute to teammate Riqui Puig, who was sidelined with an ACL injury sustained during the Western Conference Final.

Red Bulls Rally Falls Short

Despite the early setback, the Red Bulls found a glimmer of hope in the 28th minute when center back Sean Nealis volleyed home a loose ball from a corner kick. However, the Eastern Conference’s seventh-seeded underdogs were unable to find an equalizer, leaving them without the league title for the second time in their storied history. The Red Bulls, one of the league’s founding clubs, remain one of three originals yet to capture an MLS Cup.

A Season of Redemption for LA Galaxy

The Galaxy’s road to glory marked a remarkable turnaround from their 13th-place finish in the Western Conference in 2023. Key to their success were the high-profile acquisitions of Designated Players Joseph Paintsil and Gabriel Pec, reportedly signed for a combined $20 million during the winter transfer window. Their contributions revitalized head coach Greg Vanney’s attack-oriented vision.

LA Galaxy’s dominance at Dignity Health Sports Park was another cornerstone of their success, as they remained undefeated at home throughout the 2024 season, compiling a record of 17 wins, zero losses, and four draws across all competitions.

Key Highlights

• Goals:
  • 9’ – LA Galaxy: Joseph Paintsil
  • 13’ – LA Galaxy: Dejan Joveljić
  • 28’ – NY Red Bulls: Sean Nealis
• Moment of the Match: Dejan Joveljić’s game-winning goal, a toe-poked finish past Red Bulls goalkeeper Carlos Coronel, exemplified the precision and determination that defined LA’s playoff run. Joveljić concluded the postseason with six goals, the second-most in MLS playoff history.
• Man of the Match: Gastón Brugman delivered a commanding performance in midfield, stepping into the void left by Puig. His assist for Paintsil’s opening goal and overall dominance earned him the MLS Cup 2024 MVP presented by Audi.

A Record-Breaking Playoff Campaign

The Galaxy concluded their Audi 2024 MLS Cup Playoffs campaign with an unprecedented 18 goals scored, further cementing their status as the league’s top offensive powerhouse.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

For the Galaxy, the focus will shift to building on their triumphant season as they aim to solidify their dynasty. For the Red Bulls, the Cinderella run ends with heartbreak, but the team can take solace in having reached the final as the lowest-seeded team in MLS history.