Pride, Arrogance and a Lack of Dominance
In a thrilling edition of El Tráfico, the LA Galaxy and LAFC played to a 2-2 draw on Sunday night at Dignity Health Sports Park, marking the 25th meeting between the crosstown rivals.
The highlight? Marco Reus‘ stunning free-kick equalizer in El Tráfico.
The match featured standout performances, exciting late-game heroics, and while the LA Galaxy currently leads in the all-time series against LAFC, this was not their night to continue any rivalry dominance. It was a continuation of the Galaxy’s 2025 MLS season winless streak—the worst start of their MLS season ever. 
READ: MLS May Madness: El Tráfico, Club World Cup Stakes, and Big Broadcast Boosts
LA Galaxy and LAFC Match Recap
The Galaxy struck early, with Marco Reus capitalizing on a rebound in the 6th minute to give the home side a 1-0 lead. LAFC responded swiftly. Denis Bouanga netted a powerful shot from 25 yards out in the 13th minute, leveling the score at 1-1.
Marco Reus’ Masterclass: A Free Kick That Stunned LAFC
As the clock ticked toward full time and LA Galaxy trailed 2-1 in a high-stakes El Tráfico, Marco Reus stepped up with the calm precision of a Bundesliga veteran.
In the second half, LAFC’s Nathan Ordaz put the visitors ahead in the 50th minute with a well-placed shot, marking his first goal of the season.
The Galaxy pressed for an equalizer, and in the 87th minute, Reus delivered again. The crowd was holding its breath as the former Borussia Dortmund player curled a stunning free-kick into the top right corner past LAFC goalkeeper Hugo Lloris to secure a point for the Galaxy. This former Bundesliga player’s stark laser focus tied up the match in one smooth motion.
MLS Key Performances in El Tráfico
- Marco Reus (LA Galaxy): The German midfielder’s brace was instrumental in the Galaxy’s comeback, earning him the MLS Player of the Week honors.
- Position: Attacking Midfielder
- Date of Birth: May 31, 1989
- Nationality: 🇩🇪 Germany
- International Career: Germany National Team – 48 caps, 15 goals
- Notable Strengths: A European legend with a loyal following, Marco Reus joined in 2025 from Borussia Dortmund and made headlines. Reus has brought world-class pedigree and leadership to the Galaxy midfield. His brace against LAFC may just be the spark the team needs to turn their season around.
- Denis Bouanga (LAFC): Continued his impressive form with his seventh goal of the season, showcasing his prowess from distance.
- Position: Forward
- Date of Birth: November 11, 1994
- Nationality: Gabon (born in Le Mans, France)
- International Career: Gabon National Team – 40+ caps
- Notable Strengths: A dynamic attacker with a fearless mindset, Denis Bouanga has become one of the most explosive players in MLS. After joining LAFC from Ligue 1’s AS Saint-Étienne, Bouanga quickly adapted to the American game.
Historical Context
This draw brings the all-time El Tráfico series to 10 wins for the Galaxy, 9 for LAFC, and 6 draws. The rivalry remains one of the most intense in MLS, consistently delivering high-scoring and closely contested matches.
Looking Ahead
The Galaxy, still seeking their first win of the season, will face newcomer San Diego FC on May 24.
LAFC, aiming to build on their unbeaten streak, will prepare for their upcoming match on May 24 vs. CF Montréal with confidence. Following this, LAFC hosts Club América on May 31, 2025, at LA’s BMO Stadium. This playoff match will decided the final team in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The winner will join Group D, which includes Flamengo (Brazil), Espérance de Tunis (Tunisia), and Chelsea (England).
READ: LAFC and Club America to contest Club World Cup playoff on May 31
For fans and neutrals alike, this edition of El Tráfico reinforced the rivalry’s reputation for excitement and unpredictability.
