LA Galaxy defeat MNUTD to advance in MLS Cup playoffs

The LA Galaxy defense was pushed to its breaking point, but goals from Sebastian Lletget and Jona dos Santos lifted LA to a 2-1 away victory over Minnesota United Sunday night at a raucous Allianz Arena.

With Joe Corona nursing a toe injury Guille Barros Schelotto opted for a conservative approach: Perry Kitchen paired alongside Jona dos Santos in the midfield while Giancarlo Gonzalez was inserted at right back.

Minnesota outshot the Galaxy 7-4 at the half, but the Loons were considerably more dangerous in attack. Angelo Rodriguez and Robin Lod blew clear-cut chances to put MNUTD ahead while LA were limited to speculative efforts. Uriel Antuna had an open look on the breakaway but his attempt was blocked by the excellent Romain Métanire.

MNUTD continued to pile on the pressure and should have gone ahead on several occasions, but it was Sebastian Lletget who bundled home a broken play to give LA a slim lead in the 71st minute. Five minutes later Jona dos Santos had time and space centrally outside the box to curl a beauty around Victor Mannone. 2-0 Galaxy.

Minnesota made their last sub in an effort to chase the game and Jan Gregus got MNUTD on the board late but LA held on to secure the only away victory of the first round.

El Trafico VI awaits.