Riqui Puig was at his highlight-reel best Tuesday night in the US Open Cup, scoring a brilliant individual goal in the LA Galaxy's 2-0 Round of 16 win at El Trafico rivals LAFC.
The Galaxy had just stunned the BMO Stadium crowd thanks to Tyler Boyd's 49th-minute golazo. A mere three minutes later, their Spanish Designated Player took things to another level with a slashing run from midfield, weaving through defenders before chipping goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic.
It was an absolute stunner from the graduate of FC Barcelona's famed La Masia academy, who more than made up for his 34th-minute blocked penalty with one of the classiest goals the Open Cup has seen this season.
And afterward, the 23-year-old celebrated by pulling off his jersey in front of LAFC's 3252 supporters' section – providing some fighting words postgame as well.
"It is a fanbase that puts a lot of pressure and sometimes can be disrespectful, but it is what it is," said Puig. "It just happened. I am very happy and it’s proof the LA Galaxy can own this city. We went for it.”
