COMMERCE CITY, Colo. — The Los Angeles Galaxy secured an impressive 4-1 victory over the Colorado Rapids in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs. This triumph marks a decisive first-round sweep for the Galaxy, as rookies Gabriel Pec and Joseph Paintsil both found the net in the first half, followed by Riqui Puig’s two goals in stoppage time during the second half.

Pec opened the scoring just eight minutes into the match, notching his first postseason goal by redirecting a clearance attempt from Colorado’s goalkeeper, Zack Steffen, into the goal. The Rapids quickly responded with a goal from Oliver Larraz, who notched his first-ever postseason score in the 19th minute, leveling the match at 1-1.

As the clock wound down in the first half, the Galaxy regained the lead when Paintsil found the net in the third minute of stoppage time. It was a significant moment for Paintsil, marking his first postseason goal, while Maya Yoshida registered his first assist in his playoff career. The Galaxy went into halftime leading 2-1.

In the second half, Puig showcased his talent by scoring twice in stoppage time, solidifying the team’s victory. His first goal was assisted by Diego Fagúndez, who achieved his second career assist in his ninth postseason appearance. Notably, this breakout performance comes after Puig did not score or assist in his two playoff matches the previous year. Pec also contributed with an assist on Puig’s second goal, continuing his strong playoff performance.

John McCarthy, the Galaxy goalkeeper, had a reliable outing, making three saves in his second playoff start. He had previously kept a clean sheet in his first playoff start. Conversely, Steffen recorded four saves in his tenth career postseason appearance, which was his second for the seventh-seeded Rapids.

This season, Los Angeles has dominated their encounters with Colorado, outscoring them 15-4 across four matches. Historically, the Galaxy has now achieved a record of 9-2-0 against the Rapids in playoff scenarios, including a strong 4-2-0 record away from home. The Galaxy’s next challenge will be against the winner of the playoff series between Real Salt Lake and Minnesota United, ensuring that the Galaxy’s playoff journey continues.