The first El Trafico showdown played in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs lived up to the hype and then some, with Los Angeles Football Club beating the LA Galaxy for the first time.
Carlos Vela and Adama Diomande scored a brace apiece to lead LAFC to a thrilling 5-3 win the Western Conference Semifinals Thursday night at Banc of California Stadium.
Moments after hitting the woodwork on a free kick, Vela opened the scoring in the 16th minute following a turnover by Diego Polenta. The Golden Boot presented by Audi winner took a pass from Brian Rodriguez, sliced Giancarlo Gonzalez with a cut to his right foot and slid a low shot inside the far post.