CARSON, Calif. — In an impressive display, Dejan Joveljic and Riqui Puig both contributed two goals and an assist, leading the Los Angeles Galaxy to a commanding 5-0 win against the Colorado Rapids on Saturday night. This match marked the beginning of a best-of-three first-round playoff series.

The second-seeded Galaxy took the lead in the 32nd minute when Joveljic scored. He held the momentum into the halftime break, marking his second-ever goal in postseason play. This victory marked a significant moment for Puig, who recorded his first playoff assist on Joveljic’s goal. Last year, Joveljic had only one score in two brief appearances during the playoffs, while Puig had started all three of his appearances without an assist until this match.

The Galaxy extended their lead shortly into the second half when John Nelson scored in the 52nd minute after receiving a precise pass from Miki Yamane, taking the score to 2-0. Puig quickly added to the tally just two minutes later, further tilting the match in favor of LA. This was Nelson’s first goal in the playoffs during his first game with the Galaxy, having made two previous starts with FC Dallas. Yamane, a rookie, had showcased his playmaking abilities throughout the regular season with six assists. Additionally, Joveljic recorded his first assist in playoff action, benefiting Puig’s goal with his contribution.

Joveljic capped his performance with another goal in the 75th minute, adding to his impressive tally. Puig then secured his brace in the 87th minute with an assist from rookie Gabriel Pec, sealing a fantastic victory for the Galaxy.

In goal for Los Angeles, John McCarthy managed to maintain a clean sheet in his playoff debut despite not making any saves during the match. McCarthy had previously started in the playoffs for Inter Miami back in 2020.

For the Rapids, goalkeeper Zack Steffen was busy, turning away six shots, marking his ninth experience in the playoffs. Steffen had previously played the earlier eight matches with the Columbus Crew during the 2017-2018 seasons. The Rapids were noticeably missing key player Djordje Mihailovic, who was sidelined due to an ankle injury.

The series will continue on Friday in Colorado, as both teams vie for supremacy in this playoff matchup.