Ghana international Joseph Paintsil showcased his talent once again, playing a key role in LA Galaxy’s exhilarating 4-3 triumph over San Jose Earthquakes in a thrilling Major League Soccer (MLS) encounter.
The former Genk forward notched a goal and an assist, reminiscent of his recent stellar performance, as LA Galaxy claimed victory in the Cali Classico clash on Monday at the Dignity Health Sports Park.
LA Galaxy wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Gabriel Pec opening the scoring just 14 minutes into the game.
Paintsil then doubled the advantage from the penalty spot in the 24th minute before turning provider for Maya Yoshida’s headed goal from a corner kick in the 30th minute.
Cali Clásico secured ✅
⚽️✔️
🅰️✔️#JP pic.twitter.com/xHxWGUVLTK
— Joseph Paintsil (@josephpaintsil_) April 22, 2024
Despite San Jose pulling one back through Rodrigues in the 32nd minute, LA Galaxy held a commanding 3-1 lead at halftime.
In the second half, Ricard Puig extended LA Galaxy’s lead with a goal in the 56th minute. Although San Jose attempted to mount a comeback with goals from Benjamin Kikanovic and Jeremy Ebobisse in the 58th and 72nd minutes respectively, LA Galaxy held on for the win.
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With this victory, LA Galaxy maintain their position at the top of the Western Conference table, with Paintsil playing a pivotal role in their campaign.
Since joining LA Galaxy from KRC Genk in February, Paintsil has been in impressive form, contributing eight goals in the 2024 MLS season, with four goals and four assists, making him the standout performer in the team.
LA Galaxy’s next challenge will be against Austin FC on Saturday, April 27, 2024.
With his recent promising performances, the 26-year-old will be expected to play a significant role in Ghana’s task ahead – the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR) in June 2024.