NYC vs LA Galaxy: Nicolás Fernández Nets Late PK as NYCFC Secure 1-1 Draw
The NYC vs LA Galaxy clash finished 1-1 at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson. Nicolás Fernández converted a second-half penalty to earn New York City FC a point in the 2026 MLS season opener.
LA Galaxy had taken an early lead through João Klauss. However, a red card shifted momentum and allowed NYCFC to capitalize from the spot.
Klauss Scores Early to Lift Galaxy
Just 90 seconds into the match, João Klauss thrilled the home crowd of 30,510. Marco Reus and Joseph Paintsil combined to set up the goal, giving LA a quick 1-0 advantage.
The Galaxy acquired Klauss in a cash-for-player trade with St. Louis City on a one-year deal. The club hopes he can help offset the continued absence of Riqui Puig, who remains sidelined after complications from a torn ACL.
LA controlled much of the first half and carried the lead deep into the second period.
Red Card Turns the Tide
Momentum changed when Emiro Garces received a second yellow card and was sent off. That decision left the Galaxy down to 10 men and opened the door for NYCFC.
Shortly after, Nicolás Fernández stepped up and calmly converted a penalty in the 66th minute. The goal leveled the NYC vs LA Galaxy contest at 1-1. Fernández previously scored five goals in 19 appearances for LA last season, making his strike even more notable.
Goalkeepers Play Key Roles
NYCFC goalkeeper Matt Freese delivered a strong performance. The reigning Goalkeeper of the Year made six saves, including four in the first half, to keep his side within reach. Last season, Freese recorded eight clean sheets in 31 starts.
On the other end, Novak Micovic did not register a save in his 25th career start for the Galaxy. The 24-year-old allowed the equalizer from the penalty spot as LA settled for a draw.
Teams Enter Season with Different Motivations
NYCFC arrived in Los Angeles after falling 5-1 to Inter Miami in last season’s Eastern Conference Final. Justin Haak scored their lone goal in that match and now plays for the Galaxy.
Meanwhile, LA seek redemption after a difficult campaign that included a league-record 16-match winless streak. That slump followed their MLS Cup triumph over the New York Red Bulls the previous year.
Earlier in the week, the Galaxy also drew 1-1 against Sporting San Miguelito in the first leg of their Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 32 tie.
Conclusion
The NYC vs LA Galaxy opener delivered early drama and late tension. João Klauss gave LA a dream start, but a red card changed the match’s direction.
Nicolás Fernández’s composed penalty ensured NYCFC left Carson with a valuable point. Both teams showed resilience, setting up what promises to be a competitive 2026 MLS season.
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João Klauss scored for LA Galaxy, while Nicolás Fernández equalized for NYCFC from the penalty spot.
Emiro Garces received a second yellow card, resulting in a red card and reducing LA to 10 players.
The match took place at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
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