mls-en : SJ Earthquakes vs LA Galaxy, 2023-07-02
Icaro
In an energetic showdown at the Stanford Stadium in Stanford, California, on July 2, 2023, SJ Earthquakes and LA Galaxy ended in a 2-2 draw. The event was filled with equal levels of skill and vigor from both ends, leaving the fans at the edge of their seats.
LA Galaxy launched an early offensive, with Raheem Edwards sending the ball into the net, courtesy of an assist from Douglas Costa in the 31st minute, putting the visitors 1-0 up. However, the Earthquakes retaliated and equalized the score just before halftime thanks to a well-executed goal by Jack Skahan, assisted by Carlos Akapo.
No sooner had the second half commenced than Douglas Costa and Preston Judd teamed up to gain the advantage for LA Galaxy in the 47th minute. With a 2-1 lead in hand, LA Galaxy seemed to have the match on lockdown until the last part of the game was ignited by Cristian Espinoza's goal, set up by Jackson Yueill, for the SJ Earthquakes in the 81st minute, leveling the score again.
Social media erupted when the Galaxy had a late penalty kick overturned by the VAR at minute 90+1. Fans expressed their frustration in their posts, questioning the decision and inferring bias against their club by the MLS. Yet, this controversial decision did not affect the final scoreline, leaving fans debating its potential impact on the match's outcome.
Following this thrilling draw, both teams are now preparing for their upcoming games. LA Galaxy is set to host Los Angeles on July 5, 2023, whilst SJ Earthquakes will face off against Los Angeles on July 9, 2023. As the teams move forward, they reflect on this embattled match and begin strategizing for the challenges ahead.