LA Galaxy regains momentum just in time for a high-stakes battle with Tigres | OneFootball

LA Galaxy spared nobody the rod against Herediano. After going down 1-0 in Costa Rica, the California team put all doubts to rest with a thrashing 4-1 victory at home at Dignity Health Sports Park. The victory reserved their quarterfinals place in the Concacaf Champions Cup, securing their position in the tournament.

Qualification is now secured, and an even tougher test comes in the form of Tigres UANL, one of Liga MX's giants, who are waiting for Greg Vanney's team.

Early pressure and first-half dominance

LA Galaxy came into the game needing to overturn the first-leg loss and didn't disappoint. Within only two minutes, Diego Fagúndez forced goalkeeper Dany Carvajal to work with a powerful left-footed effort, an ominous indication of a punishing night for the defense of Herediano.

The home team were presented with a dangerous opportunity when Juan Luis Pérez struck from distance, momentarily stirring the home fans into life. But Julián Aude equalized the aggregate at 30 minutes, thumping home a shot after Isaiah Parente had found him with a pass. Galaxy simply kept going and added to their lead at 39 minutes, when Miguel Berry thumped home from in close after another Parente pass. The home team were now in charge.

Second-half dominance and a spot in the next round guaranteed

Herediano needed a reaction, but Galaxy never gave them that chance. The second half got underway at the same level, and at the 53rd minute, Gabriel Pec widened the gap further with a finished pass from Harbor Miller.

The 3-0 margin virtually ensured victory, but that was not the end of it. Christian Ramírez also scored in the back of the net after 76 minutes, converting a cross from Carlos Garcés into rout.

Herediano had a reply after 83 minutes with José González heading the ball into the top corner, but by this stage, the victory was as good as done.

LA Galaxy comes back from poor start

LA Galaxy opened the campaign with four successive defeats in all competitions, and there were fears about the team's shape.

Now, they are to encounter Tigres UANL, one of Liga MX's fiercest teams and a front-runner to win the title. To progress, Galaxy needs to keep up their intensity, smooth out their attacking accuracy, and solidify their defensive organization.