LAFC secured a spot in the MLS playoffs after rallying from a two-goal deficit to draw 2-2 with the LA Galaxy in a dramatic El Tráfico derby on Sunday night. The match, held in Los Angeles, saw Leo Walta score the equalizer in the 62nd minute, helping LAFC clinch their eighth playoff berth in nine seasons.

Joseph Paintsil netted both goals for the Galaxy, marking his first scoring contributions since August. Despite holding a two-goal lead midway through the second half, the Galaxy conceded twice and dropped valuable points that could jeopardize their postseason chances. With this result, LAFC sits sixth in the Western Conference, while the Galaxy occupy ninth place. The historic rivalry between the two clubs is now balanced at 10 wins apiece with eight draws.

The contest featured a tense final sequence in injury time, highlighted by impressive saves from Galaxy goalkeeper JT Marcinkowski and defender Justin Haak, denying several LAFC attempts to take the lead. A late goal by Denis Bouanga, following a bicycle kick by Tyler Boyd, was ultimately disallowed for offside following video review. Bouanga also scored earlier in the second half, marking his 18th goal in 30 MLS appearances this season.

The Galaxy initially took control in the first half despite key absences, with German midfielder Marco Reus out due to illness and striker Hirving “Chucky” Lozano sidelined by a hamstring injury sustained on international duty with Mexico. Son Heung-min appeared to score midway through the first half, but the goal was overturned after an extended offside review.

Shortly after, Robert Taylor intercepted a pass and set up Paintsil to open the scoring, ending a scoring drought since August 19. Paintsil then doubled the Galaxy’s lead in the 51st minute after capitalizing on a rebound from goalkeeper Hugo Lloris. The Galaxy’s celebrations were marred by LAFC fans throwing drinks at the players.

LAFC responded swiftly, with Armindo Sieb initiating a counterattack that led to Bouanga’s rebound finish. The comeback was completed when a defensive error by Galaxy’s Emiro Garces allowed Walta to score, securing the draw.

Since interim head coach Xavi Tamarit took over from the dismissed Marc Dos Santos on October 1, LAFC has recorded one win and three draws in four matches, showcasing resilience and securing their playoff position ahead of the season’s final stretch.