LA Galaxy vs. Cruz Azul: Leagues Cup 2025 Match Report

On August 3, 2025, LA Galaxy faced Cruz Azul in a thrilling Leagues Cup 2025 Group Stage match at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California. The match, which kicked off at 7:30 p.m. PT (8:30 p.m. CT, 10:30 p.m. ET), ended in a 1-1 draw after regular time, with Cruz Azul securing an extra point in a dramatic 8-7 penalty shootout victory. This highly anticipated clash, part of the second matchday of the Leagues Cup, showcased intense competition between the MLS champions and the Liga MX powerhouse.

Match Overview

LA Galaxy entered the match with momentum after a commanding 5-2 victory over Club Tijuana in their Leagues Cup opener. Led by stars like Joseph Paintsil, Marco Reus, and Matheus Nascimento, the Galaxy aimed to capitalize on their attacking prowess and home advantage. Cruz Azul, on the other hand, were desperate to rebound from a shocking 7-0 defeat to Seattle Sounders in their first group stage match. Under coach Nicolás Larcamón, “La Máquina” needed a win to keep their hopes of advancing alive.

The sold-out crowd at Dignity Health Sports Park witnessed a match filled with tactical battles, key moments, and a nail-biting penalty shootout. Both teams displayed resilience, with Cruz Azul showing signs of recovery from their earlier loss and LA Galaxy maintaining their attacking threat despite defensive challenges.

First Half: Cruz Azul Takes the Lead

Cruz Azul started the match with determination, controlling possession and creating early chances. In the 21st minute, their efforts paid off when Carlos “Charly” Rodríguez capitalized on a precise diagonal pass from Rodolfo Rotondi. Rodríguez, arriving from the second line, struck the ball with his left foot to give Cruz Azul a 1-0 lead. The goal showcased Cruz Azul’s ability to exploit spaces and their intent to dominate the midfield.

LA Galaxy struggled to penetrate Cruz Azul’s organized defense, with the visitors maintaining their advantage through disciplined play. Despite a few attempts from Marco Reus and Joseph Paintsil, Galaxy’s shots lacked precision, and Cruz Azul goalkeeper Kevin Mier stood firm. The half ended with Cruz Azul leading 1-0, setting the stage for a more intense second half.

Second Half: Galaxy Fight Back

LA Galaxy came out with renewed energy in the second half, pushing for an equalizer. The match saw increased physicality, with three yellow cards issued to Galaxy players for aggressive challenges, reflecting the growing tension. Cruz Azul nearly doubled their lead when Ángel Sepúlveda struck the post, but their failure to convert chances kept the game within reach for the hosts.

In the 81st minute, LA Galaxy’s persistence paid off. A well-executed move down the right flank saw Mauricio Cuevas deliver a pinpoint cross to Gabriel Pec, who finished clinically to level the score at 1-1. The goal sparked the home crowd and shifted momentum toward the Galaxy. Despite late chances, including a missed opportunity by Cruz Azul’s Mateo Levy in stoppage time, the match ended in a 1-1 draw, leading to a penalty shootout to determine the extra point.

Penalty Shootout: Cruz Azul Prevails

The penalty shootout was a rollercoaster, with both teams showcasing nerves of steel. After 18 penalty attempts, the shootout went into sudden death. Key moments included:

• Cruz Azul’s Kevin Mier making crucial saves, including stopping Edwin Cerrillo and Emiro Garcés, keeping his team in contention.
• Gabriel Pec, Diego Fagúndez, and Joseph Paintsil scoring for LA Galaxy, while Ignacio Rivero, Gonzalo Piovi, and Charly Rodríguez converted for Cruz Azul, keeping the shootout level.
• Jesús Orozco Chiquete hitting the crossbar for Cruz Azul, prolonging the drama.
• Mateo Levy ultimately scoring the decisive penalty for Cruz Azul, securing an 8-7 victory in the shootout.

Cruz Azul earned two points (one for the draw, one for the shootout), while LA Galaxy took one point for the draw.

Key Performances and Statistics

• Cruz Azul: Charly Rodríguez was pivotal, scoring the opener and converting in the shootout. Kevin Mier’s heroics in goal, particularly in the shootout, were instrumental. Rodolfo Rotondi’s assist and constant threat on the wing earned him praise.
• LA Galaxy: Gabriel Pec’s equalizer highlighted his growing importance, while Mauricio Cuevas impressed with his assist. Novak Mićović made eight saves but couldn’t stop Cruz Azul in the shootout.
• Statistics (per Sofascore): Cruz Azul dominated possession (estimated 55-45%) and created more clear chances, while LA Galaxy had more shots (12 vs. 10) but struggled with accuracy.

Team Lineups

LA Galaxy Starting XI: Novak Mićović (GK); Miki Yamane, Emiro Garcés, Zanka, Julián Aude; Edwin Cerrillo, Diego Fagúndez, Lucas Sanabria; Gabriel Pec, Joseph Paintsil, Marco Reus (C).
Substitutes: Mauricio Cuevas, John Nelson, Matheus Nascimento, and others.

Cruz Azul Starting XI: Kevin Mier (GK); Jorge Sánchez, Willer Ditta, Gonzalo Piovi, Omar Campos; Erik Lira, Ignacio Rivero, Lorenzo Faravelli, José Paradela; Carlos Rodríguez, Ángel Sepúlveda.
Substitutes: Luka Romero, Mateo Levy, Jesús Orozco Chiquete, others.

Implications and Outlook

The result keeps both teams in contention for advancing from the Leagues Cup Group Stage, though Cruz Azul’s earlier loss puts them in a precarious position. They face Santos Laguna next on August 7, while LA Galaxy will also meet Santos Laguna in a doubleheader at Dignity Health Sports Park. LA Galaxy’s attacking form remains a strength, but their defensive lapses need addressing. Cruz Azul’s resilience offers hope, but they must improve their finishing to progress.

Conclusion

The LA Galaxy vs. Cruz Azul clash was a testament to the competitive spirit of the Leagues Cup, blending MLS and Liga MX talent in a high-stakes encounter. Cruz Azul’s shootout victory provided a much-needed boost, while LA Galaxy’s resilience ensures they remain a formidable force. As both teams prepare for their final group stage matches, fans can expect more drama in this thrilling tournament.