LA Galaxy and Toronto FC make late run for MLS playoffs

Wednesday night’s Toronto FC vs. LA Galaxy game in Major League Soccer ended in a 2-2 draw. The game was bombarded with end-to-end action. World Cup veterans Michael Bradley and Javier Hernández were both pounding the hybrid grass at BMO Field in Canada. The two clubs’ mainstays were joined by their newly acquired, high-profile teammates: Riqui Puig from Barcelona and the dynamic duo from Italy – Federico Bernardeschi and Lorenzo Insigne.

Early doors, Toronto FC goalkeeper Alex Bono came through with multiple saves, playing an integral part in helping The Reds escape the match in a draw. In the first half, the Galaxy was relentless in their attack. By the 24th minute, Douglas Costa scored an incredible goal on a set-piece outside the 18-yard box, giving the Carson outfit a comfortable lead for the remainder of the first 45.

In the second half, Insigne and Bernardeschi continued to display their fluid rapport. Bernardeschi scored on a cross from his compatriot with an outside volley. However, the No. 10 was offside. But Toronto FC did not concede defeat. They continued to press, with team captain Michael Bradley leading the pursuit with his brilliant hold-up play. In the 62nd minute, Bradley’s second assist led to No. 9 Jesús Jiménez, who equalized the match with a sitter.

Toronto fighting for a place in the MLS playoffs

Nevertheless, FC Toronto didn’t budge. The Reds continued to press into the final third. Bernardeschi’s corner kick found Insigne’s bicycle kick that went wide.

With the match tied at one a piece, Toronto continued to seek opportunities to gain the lead. Using this momentum, Federico Bernardeschi led a blitz on a counterattack. A late tackle from Raheem Edwards took Bernardeschi down inside the penalty box. Toronto was awarded a penalty, and the Italian No. 10 stepped up, slotting the ball into the back of the net, 2-1.

Having given up the lead, LA Galaxy had to retaliate. Just before the final whistle, Riqui Puig scored a screamer from outside the box, burying the ball into the far post. The goal was ‘worldie,’ giving LA Galaxy a taste of what the 23-year-old Spaniard promises to deliver.

The top seven Western and Eastern Conference teams will make the playoffs in October. However, LA Galaxy and Toronto FC are making a late run for MLS glory. With seven matches remaining in the 2022/23 season for the Galaxy, and five for Toronto, the two clubs are on the prowl. The Galaxy is in 8th place, just one point behind the #7 Portland Timbers. In the East, Toronto is in 10^th, trailing 2 points behind 7th place Inter Miami.