CARSON, Calif.— Giovani and Jonathan dos Santos excelled in their return to the LA Galaxy starting lineup for the team’s 4-0 win over Columbus Crew SC after being away for a month on World Cup duty with Mexico.
Just 20 minutes into the first half, Jonathan helped create the team’s first goal as his combination play with Ashley Cole helped the left back find Kamara for the opening goal.
“I thought they did well. Jonathan in midfield helps us because we bring the ball out a little bit,” Galaxy coach Sigi Schmid said.
The stat sheet showcased Jona’s midfield influence as he finished the game completing 81 percent of his passes and creating three scoring chances.
Giovani dos Santos found much of his success in transition when Columbus threw numbers forward into the attack. Dangerous on the counter, Giovani nearly scored a goal of his own when he darted upfield shimmying past a Crew defender, only to have his effort blocked at the last moment.
Giovani finished the game completing 84 percent of his passes.
“Gio did well on the counter for us on two or three occasions,” Schmid said. “He was a little unlucky when he beat the guy going to his right in the box.”
With the two Mexican internationals back in the fold, the Galaxy is buzzing with excitement after their return to StubHub Center.
“It’s big for us. They’re world class players, everyone knows that,” Galaxy goalkeeper David Bingham said. “They’re quality is undeniable, and you saw it tonight.”
