LA Galaxy Close Out Coachella Preseason, Turn Attention to Champions Cup
Joseph Paintsil (Photo By: Richard Morales)
The LA Galaxy have officially wrapped up their preseason campaign in Coachella Valley, closing out several competitive tune-ups in the desert. With minutes distributed across the roster and tactical systems sharpened, the focus now shifts to the CONCACAF Champions Cup before kicking off the Major League Soccer regular season.
Marco Reus #18 (Photo By: Richard Morales)
Desert Camp Sets the Foundation
Coachella provided a valuable testing ground for LA’s evolving squad. Veteran playmaker Marco Reus quickly emerged as a central figure in the attack, using his vision and experience to connect midfield and forward lines while creating scoring opportunities.
New attacking pieces continued to build chemistry. Brazilian winger Gabriel Pec impressed with his pace and direct play, while Ghana international Joseph Paintsil added explosiveness and creativity in wide areas.
Up front, striker João Klauss provided a physical presence and hold-up ability, giving LA a focal point in the final third as they sharpened their attacking identity.
Defensively, captain Maya Yoshida anchored the back line with leadership and organization, helping the Galaxy tighten their defensive structure heading into competitive play.
Gabriel Pec# 11 ( Photo By: Richard Morales)
Champions Cup Comes First
With preseason complete, attention now turns to the high-stakes environment of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. Unlike exhibition matches, this competition brings knockout intensity and continental pressure.
The Galaxy will rely heavily on Reus’ leadership and creativity in advanced areas, the speed of Pec and Paintsil on the wings, and Klauss’ presence in the box to convert chances. Defensive discipline — led by Yoshida — will be critical against international opposition.
Squad depth developed in Coachella could prove decisive as LA balances early-season travel and competitive fixtures.
Joao Klauss New signing for LA Galaxy this Season. (Photo By: Richard Morales)
MLS Season on the Horizon
While the MLS opener looms, the immediate priority is making a strong impression in continental play. Momentum in the Champions Cup could set the tone for the domestic campaign and reinforce the attacking identity the Galaxy have been shaping throughout preseason.
The work in the desert is complete. Now, the spotlight shifts to meaningful matches — with silverware ambitions driving LA Galaxy into the new season.
Next Match in the Champions Cup
LA Galaxy’s next competitive fixtures in the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup Round One will see them face Sporting San Miguelito in a two-leg battle to advance to the Round of 16. The first leg is scheduled to be played **on Thursday, February 19, 2026, with the return leg set for Wednesday, February 25, 2026.