Riqui Puig fuels LA Galaxy’s playoff run with victory and sets new record | OneFootball

Last Saturday, Riqui Puig once again led the LA Galaxy to victory in the first round of the 2024 MLS playoffs.

Puig's performance proved that the recent setback against the Houston Dynamo, which cost the Galaxy the top spot in the Western Conference, wouldn’t stop him from bringing passion and dedication to the field.

With two crucial goals against the Colorado Rapids, Puig helped secure the Galaxy’s dominant 5-0 win, setting a confident tone for the rest of their playoff run.

Riqui Puig fuels Galaxy’s Playoff run with victory and sets new record

The Galaxy took control of the game early on, displaying skill and precision from start to finish. In the 51st minute, defender John Nelson scored his first MLS goal with an assist from Yamane, pushing the Galaxy’s lead to 2-0.

Moments later, Puig struck again, this time with an assist from Dejan Joveljic, sending the score to 3-0. The fans erupted, and the team seemed unstoppable.

Joveljic added another goal in the 75th minute, reinforcing the Galaxy’s dominance and making it clear that this game was theirs. But the Galaxy wasn’t done yet. Riqui Puig returned in the 86th minute to score the night’s final goal, capping off the 5-0 win and solidifying his place as the game’s MVP.

Throughout the season, Puig has been an instrumental figure for the Galaxy, often dazzling fans with his exceptional skill and game-changing plays.

His first playoff performance was no different. Likely drawing some inspiration from his beloved Barcelona, Puig played with passion and precision, showcasing the form that has made him one of MLS’s most electrifying midfielders since joining from Barcelona in 2022.

In fact, according to FOX Deportes, Puig set a new record in U.S. soccer by becoming the first player to contribute either a goal or an assist in 13 consecutive home matches across all competitions. This consistency has not only made him a fan favorite but also a crucial factor in the Galaxy’s pursuit of a sixth MLS Cup.

Despite the crushing loss, the Rapids haven’t been eliminated yet. They still have a chance to turn things around in their upcoming home game on Friday, November 1.

A win would give Colorado the opportunity to challenge the Galaxy once more, potentially repeating the upset they delivered the last time these teams clashed in the playoffs.

The Galaxy, however, will be prepared to defend their lead and continue their quest for the MLS title, with Puig leading the charge in what promises to be an intense postseason battle.