CARSON, California — Gabriel Pec delivered a stunning hat trick to lift LA Galaxy to a 3-0 victory over Jamaica’s Mount Pleasant FA on Wednesday at Dignity Health Sports Park, securing a commanding first-leg advantage in the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 16.
Despite the scoreline, the match was defined by missed opportunities for long stretches, with the Galaxy only breaking free late in the contest.
Pec opened the scoring in the 6th minute, converting a left-footed effort from the right side of the box after a precise assist from Mauricio Cuevas. The early goal seemed to promise a dominant display, yet LA struggled to capitalize on numerous chances in the first half.
Frustration persists in the second half
The pattern largely continued after the break.
A potential breakthrough came in the 84th minute when a shot from Ruben Ramos Jr. was deflected and Harbor Miller headed in the loose ball. However, VAR intervened, overturning the goal for a handball in the buildup.
Mount Pleasant entered the match missing 10 first-team players due to visa issues, but their disciplined defense kept the scoreline narrow for most of the evening.
The VAR setback proved temporary. In the 89th minute, substitute Miki Yamane found Pec, whose shot caromed off the crossbar and into the net for his second goal.
Six minutes into stoppage time, Pec completed his hat trick, finally reflecting his dominance and the Galaxy’s superior performance.
With Pec’s hat trick and a dominant showing despite early frustration, LA Galaxy enter the second leg with a comfortable lead. The late surge underscores the team’s depth and readiness for the grueling Champions Cup schedule ahead.
