San Jose Earthquakes
In a MLS Regular Season thriller that had everything, San Jose Earthquakes snatched a dramatic 2-2 draw against Los Angeles FC with Reid Roberts’ 98th-minute equalizer. This match was a rollercoaster of emotions, featuring a red card, disallowed goals, and a last-gasp stunner that sent the home crowd into raptures.
Los Angeles FC Strike First Through Son Heung-Min
The deadlock was broken in the 34th minute when Son Heung-Min, LAFC’s marquee signing, coolly slotted home after a slick assist from Mark Delgado. The South Korean star’s clinical finish seemed to set the visitors on course for a comfortable night.
Aaron Long’s Red Card Shifts Momentum
Just three minutes later, the game turned on its head when LAFC defender Aaron Long received a straight red card for a dangerous tackle. Reduced to ten men, LAFC faced an uphill battle against a San Jose side boasting 69% possession.
Denis Bouanga Doubles LAFC’s Lead Against the Odds
Despite their numerical disadvantage, LAFC stunned the Earthquakes in the 53rd minute when Denis Bouanga latched onto Son’s through ball and fired past Angus Gunn. The goal seemed to defy logic, with LAFC managing just three total shots compared to San Jose’s 20.
San Jose Fight Back Through Judd and Roberts
The Earthquakes rallied spectacularly in the final 20 minutes. Paul Judd ignited the comeback in the 70th minute with a powerful strike, setting up a grandstand finish. Just when it seemed LAFC might hold on, Roberts unleashed a thunderous shot in the eighth minute of stoppage time. The final whistle blew seconds later, sending the Earthquakes players and fans into delirium.
What This Result Means for Both Sides
For San Jose, this dramatic draw feels like a victory earned through sheer persistence and dominance in the stats sheet. Their never-say-die attitude bodes well for their playoff push. LAFC, meanwhile, will rue missed opportunities despite their resilient showing with 10 men. Both teams will look to build on this dramatic result as the MLS season enters its crucial final stretch.
Key Moments
34′ ⚽ Los Angeles FC — Son Heung-Min (assist: M. Delgado)
37′ 🟥 Los Angeles FC — A. Long sent off
53′ ⚽ Los Angeles FC — D. Bouanga (assist: Son Heung-Min)
70′ ⚽ San Jose Earthquakes — P. Judd
