Brace for it, Carlos Vela is ready to make an immediate impact for LAFC.
The Mexican international struck for two goals and played a full 90 minutes for a second preseason match in a wild 4-4 draw with the Vancouver Whitecaps Sunday at UCLA.
It was the third preseason draw for the MLS expansion side, which is still seeking a first-ever victory.
Vela, who missed the LAFC preseason opener after playing 90 minutes for El Tri in a 1-0 victory over Bosnia and Herzegovina, opened his account two minutes after kickoff, potting a left-footed free kick after being fouled 25 yards from goal after dribbling through the heart of the Whitecaps defense.
The Designated Player, who arrives from Real Sociedad, added a penalty kick in the final 15 minutes as LAFC twice rallied from two-goal deficits to secure the draw.
Vela is expected to make his MLS regular-season debut March 4 when LAFC head to CenturyLink Field to meet the Seattle Sounders in the club’s inaugural match.
