LA Galaxy Edge Pachuca 2–1 in Leagues Cup Quarterfinal Thriller

Carson, California - The Los Angeles Galaxy won a tough match against CF Pachuca, 2–1, on Thursday night. This game was part of the Leagues Cup quarterfinals at Dignity Health Sports Park. Daniel Aceves scored an own goal in the 27th minute. Marco Reus then found the net in the 37th. This gave the Galaxy a two-goal lead. But Pachuca didn’t give up. Alemão scored in the 90+6′, creating a tense finish.

The Galaxy, backed by an excited home crowd, took control right away. Aceves mistakenly sent a Niko Micović cross into his own net. Ten minutes later, Marco Reus scored again. He calmly struck with his right foot from the center of the box after a quick counterattack.

Pachuca tried hard to get back in the game. However, Galaxy’s goalkeeper Micović and their strong defense kept stopping them. Pachuca felt the pressure late in the game. It wasn’t until six minutes into stoppage time that Alemão scored from close range. Kenedy set him up with a set piece, making it a one-goal game.

In the final moments, the Galaxy stayed strong to secure their place in the semifinals. They will meet the winner of the Seattle Sounders and Club Puebla match. Head coach Gregg Vanney praised his team’s resilience. He called the quarterfinal “a true test of character.” The Galaxy aim to win their first Leagues Cup trophy.

Key Moments

• 27′ – Own goal by Daniel Aceves (Pachuca) gives LA Galaxy the lead
• 37′ – Marco Reus (LA Galaxy) doubles the lead with a right-footed strike
• 90+6′ – Alemão (Pachuca) pulls one back deep into stoppage time

With this win, LA Galaxy move further in the tournament. They also keep their hopes alive for a spot in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup. CF Pachuca’s spirited comeback fell just short, ending their Leagues Cup campaign.