Joseph Paintsil scores brace in LA Galaxy win over Tijuana
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Paintsil shines with two goals and an assist as Galaxy cruise past Tijuana.
Ghanaian forward Joseph Paintsil netted twice and delivered an assist in LA Galaxy’s 5-2 triumph over Tijuana, pushing them into the next round of the League Cup.
Joseph Paintsil delivered an outstanding performance for LA Galaxy, scoring twice and assisting once in their commanding 5-2 win against Mexican side Tijuana in the League Cup on Friday. The Ghanaian international stepped up in the second half, showing his attacking prowess as Galaxy advanced confidently into the next stage of the competition.
Early Goals Set the Tempo
The match opened with LA Galaxy asserting control. Brazilian forward Matheus Nascimento gave his side an early advantage, slotting in the opener. However, Tijuana quickly replied, leveling the score just five minutes later to keep the game competitive in the first half.
Missed Penalty, Quick Recovery
Paintsil had a chance to put Galaxy ahead again but failed to convert from the penalty spot. Despite that miss, the hosts regained their lead before halftime through winger Gabriel Pec, who fired in the team’s second goal, making it 2-1 at the break.
Tijuana’s Response and Paintsil’s Redemption
After the break, Tijuana found another equaliser through Mora, making it 2-2. But Paintsil quickly responded, restoring Galaxy’s lead with a well-taken goal. Not long after, he played a decisive pass to German veteran Marco Reus, who made no mistake in adding a fourth for Galaxy.
Paintsil Seals the Win in Added Time
In the dying moments of the match, Paintsil once again found the net. His second goal of the night came in the 91st minute, capping off a brilliant individual and team performance. The win not only highlighted Galaxy’s attacking strength but also confirmed their place in the second round of the tournament.
Front Three Chemistry Shines
LA Galaxy’s attacking trio Paintsil, Nascimento, and Pec worked seamlessly throughout the game. Their coordinated runs, swift link-up play, and relentless pressure kept Tijuana’s defence unsettled. With Paintsil’s brace, Pec’s clinical finish, and Nascimento’s early opener, the front three proved lethal.
Paintsil’s Impact Continues to Grow
The 27-year-old Ghanaian forward has steadily grown into a key figure at LA Galaxy since joining the club. His pace, direct style, and eye for goal have given the team an edge in the final third. Friday’s performance will no doubt boost his confidence as the club progresses further in the League Cup campaign.
Looking Ahead
With this emphatic victory, LA Galaxy shifts focus to their next League Cup fixture. Paintsil’s form will be central to the club’s aspirations in the competition. Fans will be hoping the team can maintain their momentum and push deep into the tournament.
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