Chicharito nets late winner as Galaxy beat champions NYC, Pato scores in Orlando win

Former Manchester United forward Javier Hernandez came up with a 90th-minute winner as LA Galaxy started the new MLS season with a 1-0 win over New York City on Sunday.

Hernandez had been relatively quiet before bursting into life with a swivel inside the box and devastating strike to earn them three points against the reigning MLS Cup champions.

Galaxy missed last season’s playoffs but head coach Greg Vanney was delighted with their display, particularly in keeping a clean sheet against a side boasting reigning MLS top scorer Valentin Castellanos.

“To come out here and defend the way we did and play the way we did for 90 minutes, I’m super proud of these guys,” Vanney said. “This is a good step for us, learning how to win games like this and becoming a better group.”

CHICHARITOOOOOOOOOOO pic.twitter.com/sDqfml9YjR

— LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) February 27, 2022

Alexandre Pato opened his account for the new season with the opening goal in Orlando City’s 2-0 victory over Montreal where both sides were reduced to 10 men in the second half.

Before then, Pato and Benji Michel had both scored for Orlando, with the former Milan forward capping off a 13-pass move with a close-range finish.

Atlanta United opened their campaign with a fine 3-1 home win over Sporting KC with goals from Luiz Araujo, Dominic Dwyer and Caleb Wiley.

Anibal Godoy netted an 80th-minute winner as Nashville stunned Seattle Sounders, while Houston Dynamo and Real Salt Lake drew 0-0.

Right place, right time @Pato | #DaleMiAmor pic.twitter.com/RrXik3l3UM

— Orlando City SC (@OrlandoCitySC) February 27, 2022