MLS: Joveljic´s Galaxy salvage late point in six-goal El Trafico thriller against LAFC

Dejan Joveljic scored twice and Kevin Cabral netted a last-gasp equaliser as LA Galaxy salvaged a dramatic 3-3 draw against rivals Los Angeles FC in El Trafico.

LAFC led 2-1 and then 3-2 heading into the 86th minute but Cabral’s late heroics earned a share of the points for the Galaxy in an MLS thriller on Saturday.

Signed from Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt this month, Serbia international Joveljic – experiencing his first El Trafico derby – broke the deadlock in the 20th minute.

LAFC – who had lost a club record four consecutive matches as part of their record seven-match winless run heading into the fixture – were back on level terms courtesy of Cristian Arango’s penalty on the stroke of half-time.

It’s rare for something to live up to expectations. El Trafico ALWAYS delivers. pic.twitter.com/dqljiBW4gF

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 29, 2021

A moment of brilliance from Brian Rodriguez in the 58th minute gave LAFC a 2-1 lead, his stunning individual run evaded several Galaxy defenders before lashing home.

LAFC and the Galaxy traded goals as Jovejlic struck again in the 64th minute before Rodriguez restored the former’s lead just two minutes later.

However, there was to be late drama – Cabral pounced on Araujo’s cross and scored in front of a stunned home crowd.

The Galaxy are fourth in the Western Conference, six points behind leaders Seattle Sounders and 12 points clear of ninth-placed LAFC.

OH MY BRIAN RODRIGUEZ JUST DID THAT #LAFCvLA // Heineken #RivalryWeek pic.twitter.com/8MR8z5bWmc

— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 29, 2021

Elsewhere, Eastern Conference leaders New England Revolution were beaten 2-0 by New York City, who were fuelled by Valentin Castellanos’ brace.

New York City equalled the longest home winning streak in club history, having also enjoyed a seven-game run from November 2017 to June 2018.

Nashville celebrated their first away victory of the season after taking down Atlanta United 2-0, DC United came from behind to defeat Philadelphia Union 3-1, Chicago Fire edged New York Red Bulls 1-0, Minnesota United topped Houston Dynamo 2-1 and Sporting Kansas City drew 1-1 with Colorado Rapids.