C.D. Guadalajara vs. LA Galaxy: A Riveting MLS Leagues Cup Clash

In the world of soccer, few stories capture the imagination quite like the return of a prodigal son. Javier ‘Chicharito’ Hernandez, Mexico’s all-time leading scorer, will be stepping onto the field at Carson on Sunday night, not in the colors of LA Galaxy but in the red and white stripes of his boyhood club, Chivas. This match marks a poignant moment for Hernandez, who spent four seasons with the Galaxy, battling injuries but also demonstrating his undeniable talent by scoring 39 goals and providing six assists in 82 games. Twice he was the Galaxy’s leading scorer, leaving a lasting legacy with the seventh most goals in the club’s history.

Hernandez’s journey back to Chivas in 2024 after ending his tenure with the Galaxy is a full-circle moment. He initially played for Chivas from 2006 to 2010, scoring 30 goals and helping the team secure a Liga MX Apertura title. His success with Chivas catapulted him into a glittering career in Europe, where he donned the jerseys of Manchester United and Real Madrid, among others. In 2020, he returned to LA to play for the Galaxy, where, when healthy, he was one of the league’s most formidable strikers, even serving as captain. His 2022 season was particularly noteworthy, with 18 goals and two assists that propelled the Galaxy into the playoffs and earned him a finalist spot for the MLS MVP award.

However, the Galaxy’s fortunes have been mixed in recent years, with their only playoff appearance in the last four seasons coming during Hernandez’s standout 2022 campaign. Now, at the age of 36, Hernandez is back in LA, aiming to help Chivas advance in the Leagues Cup. His absence in Chivas’ first Leagues Cup game due to muscle pain was felt, especially during their wild 4-3 loss to the San Jose Earthquakes, where newcomer Cade Cowell made a significant impact. Fans are eagerly anticipating Sunday night’s game, hoping to see Hernandez lead Chivas to the knockout round and possibly leave his mark against his former club.

The Galaxy, on the other hand, are riding high after securing their spot in the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup. Their recent match against Chivas was a rollercoaster, with Cade Cowell’s last-minute goal tying the game at 2-2 and sending it into a penalty shootout. The Galaxy ultimately triumphed 5-4 in the shootout, thanks to a crucial save from goalkeeper Novak Micovic. Coach Greg Vanney expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, highlighting their resilience and composure under pressure. The Galaxy finished atop their group, earning an extra point and setting the stage for their next challenge on the road against Seattle.

Chivas’ elimination from the Leagues Cup in a penalty shootout against the Galaxy marked another disappointing chapter in their recent history. This was their second consecutive tournament exit in the group stage, extending their winless streak and leaving fans frustrated. Despite taking the lead with a goal from Alan Mozo, Chivas couldn’t maintain their advantage, as the Galaxy quickly equalized through Joseph Paintsil. The second half saw Chivas hit the crossbar and miss key opportunities, while the Galaxy turned the score around with a goal from Gabriel Pec. Cade Cowell’s header in added time brought the game to a dramatic 2-2 tie, but Chivas faltered in the penalty shootout, with Omar Govea and Gilberto Sepulveda missing their shots.

As the Leagues Cup progresses, both C.D. Guadalajara and LA Galaxy are preparing for their final group-stage match at Dignity Health Sports Park. The Galaxy have already secured their spot in the knockout stages, while Guadalajara needs a win or draw to advance. The Galaxy’s first Leagues Cup match was a hard-fought 2-1 victory against the San Jose Earthquakes, showcasing their strong form in both Leagues Cup and MLS matches. With three consecutive wins, the Galaxy are leading their group, with San Jose and Guadalajara close behind. A win against Guadalajara would place the Galaxy alongside Austin FC and Portland Timbers as the only teams with six points from two Leagues Cup matches.

Guadalajara, on the other hand, will be looking to put on a strong performance in front of their home fans. They have scored at least two goals in nine of their last ten home matches, indicating their offensive prowess. However, their first Leagues Cup match ended in a penalty shootout loss against the San Jose Earthquakes. Despite this setback, Guadalajara had recently turned their league season around with two straight wins. They will need at least a draw against the Galaxy to stay alive in the competition. This match also carries a sense of revenge for Guadalajara, who were defeated 2-0 by the Galaxy in the 2022 Leagues Cup showcase.

Roberto Alvarado, who scored a last-minute equalizer but missed his penalty in the first Leagues Cup match, may start for Guadalajara. For the Galaxy, Cade Cowell has been in top form, contributing to four goals in his last three league matches. The return of Gaston Brugman from injury could provide a boost in midfield, while backup goalkeeper Novak Micovic may retain his spot after an impressive starting appearance. Gabriel Pec has been involved in 20 goals for the Galaxy across all competitions, underscoring his importance to the team. The projected starting lineup for Guadalajara includes Rangel, Mozo, Sepulveda, Chavez, Gonzalez, Guzman, Gutierrez, Cowell, Alvarado, and Marin.

The stakes are high for both teams as they look to secure their place in the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup. For Guadalajara, a win or draw is essential to keep their hopes alive. The match will be a test of skill and determination, with both teams eager to advance. The Galaxy have the advantage of playing at home, where they have been in exceptional form, scoring eight goals in their last three games. However, Liga MX clubs have struggled in this competition, which often seems stacked against them. The Galaxy’s recent performances suggest they are well-equipped to handle the pressure and secure a spot in the next round.

Fans around the globe are eagerly anticipating this clash between two popular clubs. The match will be accessible for MLS season pass subscribers, as it was not selected for television broadcast or free to air on Apple TV. The game will kick off at 7:30pm local time in Carson, California, and will be available to view globally on MLS season pass. Both teams have been in exceptional form, but the Galaxy have a significant advantage as they will be playing at home. The projected starting lineup for the Galaxy includes Micovic (GK), Yamane, Neal, Yoshida, Nelson, Delgado, Cerrillo, Pec, Puig, Fagundez, and Paintsil.

American international Cade Cowell has been a standout player for Guadalajara this season, scoring three goals and assisting another in four matches. However, he was held off the scoresheet in the Leagues Cup opener against San Jose. Guadalajara will be without winger Carlos Cisneros due to a muscle injury, and defender Raul Martinez is out for months with a knee injury. The projected starting lineup for Guadalajara includes Rangel (GK), Mozo, G. Sepulveda, L. Sepulveda, M. Chavez, Gonzalez, Marin, Guzman, Gutierrez, Cowell, and Perez.

This match is more than just a game; it’s a showcase of talent and determination from both teams. The Leagues Cup is an exciting tournament that brings together some of the best teams and talent from both the MLS and Liga MX. The competition is fierce, and every match is a battle for supremacy. The Galaxy’s recent form and home advantage make them favorites to advance, but Guadalajara’s resilience and fighting spirit cannot be underestimated. This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams giving their all to secure their place in the knockout stages.

As the final whistle approaches, fans will be on the edge of their seats, watching every move and every play. The tension will be palpable, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. Whether you’re a fan of the Galaxy, Guadalajara, or just a lover of soccer, this match is a must-watch. It’s a testament to the beauty of the sport, where anything can happen, and heroes can emerge from the unlikeliest of places. So, tune in, cheer for your team, and witness a historic moment in the Leagues Cup. The battle between C.D. Guadalajara and LA Galaxy is set to be an unforgettable spectacle, filled with drama, excitement, and pure soccer magic.