Sporting KC Earns First Victory of Season, Toppling LA Galaxy 2-1

CARSON, Calif. — Sporting Kansas City secured their first win of the 2026 Major League Soccer season on Saturday night, defeating the LA Galaxy 2-1 at Dignity Health Sports Park. The victory was highlighted by a strong performance from former Galaxy player Dejan Joveljić, who scored and assisted a goal against his previous team.

Joveljić Haunts Former Club

Dejan Joveljić opened the scoring in stoppage time of the first half, capitalizing on assists from Manu García and Lasse Johnsen to give Sporting KC a 1-0 lead AP News. Joveljić played for the LA Galaxy from 2021-2024, totaling 34 goals and 11 assists in 106 starts, including a pivotal goal in the Galaxy’s 2024 championship run AP News.

Johnsen Shines in Debut

Lasse Berg Johnsen further extended Sporting KC’s advantage in the 74th minute, finishing off a play set up by Joveljić and Stephen Afrifa, bringing the score to 2-0 AP News. This marked Johnsen’s first goal and assist in his MLS debut AP News, MLS Soccer.

Galaxy Responds, But Falls Short

The LA Galaxy managed to pull one goal back in the 82nd minute when Marco Reus scored his first goal of the season, heading the ball into the net unassisted AP News. However, the late goal proved insufficient to overcome Sporting KC’s lead.

Key Stats and Goalkeeping

John Pulskamp recorded four saves for Sporting KC (1-2-1), securing the team’s first victory and ending a seven-match road losing streak dating back to last season AP News. Novak Micovic made two saves for the LA Galaxy (1-2-1) AP News.

Looking Ahead

This win marks a significant moment for Sporting Kansas City under manager Raphael Wicky MLS Soccer, whereas the LA Galaxy will look to rebound in their next match. The victory was secured in a cash-for-player trade in MLS history, with Sporting Kansas City acquiring Joveljić from the LA Galaxy for $4 million last year MLS Soccer.