MLS Review: Vela ties record, Martinez makes history

Carlos Vela tied the record for most combined goals and assists in a single MLS season as Los Angeles FC prevailed 4-2 against New York Red Bulls, while Atlanta United’s Josef Martinez made history.

Vela scored and set up two others as Supporters’ Shield leaders LAFC overcame the Red Bulls in a six-goal thriller on Sunday.

The Mexico international took his season tally to 23 goals and 15 assists – matching Sebastian Giovinco’s feat with 10 matches remaining in the regular season.

Vela teed up Jordan Harvey for the 23rd-minute opener before Latif Blessing doubled LAFC’s lead two minutes later, however, the Red Bulls rallied from 2-0 down to level in a stunning end to the first half.

Making History.

With 2 assists and a goal on the night @11carlosV has tied Sebastian Giovinco for the most combined goals & assists in a single @MLS season. #LAFC pic.twitter.com/uR4DkFccGg

— LAFC (@LAFC) August 12, 2019

Ex-Real Sociedad winger Vela converted a penalty just past the hour to put him on track to eclipse Martinez’s single-season record of 31 goals set last term.

Vela then assisted Eddie Segura 18 minutes from the end as LAFC won their third successive game to move 16 points clear of Seattle Sounders in the Western Conference and 10 ahead of Philadelphia Union in the race for the Supporters’ Shield.

Meanwhile, Martinez broke an MLS record by scoring in a 10th consecutive game for Atlanta – who edged New York City 2-1.

Another record broken @MBStadium

The highlight vs NYCFC pic.twitter.com/RAvTf9J4AG

— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) August 12, 2019

Reigning Golden Boot winner Martinez made history with his 42nd-minute header at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where the Venezuelan also scored from the penalty spot in the second half.

Heber pulled a goal back for visiting New York, however, defending champions Atlanta were not to be denied as they consolidated second spot in the Eastern Conference.

Zlatan Ibrahimovic attempted 15 shots – the most a player has taken in an MLS game this decade – as LA Galaxy lost 2-1 to a Wayne Rooney-less DC United.

15 – @Ibra_official had 15 shots tonight, the most a player has taken in an @MLS game this decade. Only one of the shots was on target. Scattered.

— OptaJack (@OptaJack) August 12, 2019

In Sunday’s other match, the high-flying Union were too good for Houston Dynamo 2-1.