CARSON, Calif. — The LA Galaxy found their stride on Saturday night, securing a much-needed 2-0 victory over Real Salt Lake, ending a record-breaking winless run at the beginning of the MLS season. Lucas Sanabria and Joseph Paintsil were the heroes of the night, each scoring pivotal goals.
This significant win for the Galaxy (1-12-4), last season’s MLS Cup champions, closes out an arduous streak of 16 games without a win. Throughout this period, they endured a worrying minus-23 goal differential. However, on this occasion, they displayed a resilient defense, with goalkeeper Novak Micovic achieving his and the team’s first shutout of the season, making four crucial saves.
Real Salt Lake (4-10-3) extended their winless run to seven matches, their last victory being a 3-1 triumph over San Diego on April 26. The Galaxy, on the other hand, enjoyed a brighter evening with the spotlight on Sanabria, who, at just 21 years old, netted his first MLS goal. His finish was expertly assisted by Matheus Nascimento in the 17th minute, marking Nascimento’s first goal contribution in the league.
Joseph Paintsil capitalized on an opportunity created by Gabriel Pec’s long pass. Cutting in from the left, he navigated past a defender and found the back post in the 55th minute, doubling the lead for the Galaxy. This performance underlined their dominance at home, as they remain unbeaten in nine consecutive home games against Real Salt Lake since 2017.
Despite Salt Lake outshooting the Galaxy 20-9, they couldn’t break through the stalwart LA defense. The Galaxy will aim to build on this performance, hoping it marks the dawn of a revitalized season ahead.