San Diego Loyal SC lose to LA Galaxy in Donovan’s return

The Lamar Hunt US Open Cup returned to Carson, California for the first time in two years and it was quite a special night at the Dignity Health Sports Park because Landon Donovan returned to the place he made history in Major League Soccer. The former USMNT legend is now the head coach of the San Diego Loyal SC and they were looking to advance to the next round of the tournament.

Donovan on his return to the Galaxy

“I am really grateful and I think we shared so many memories over ten years. My assistant asked at one point, do you recognize a lot of these faces and I told him yes, almost all of them. It was really nice to have that reception and now there is something special about this stadium, that you can feel the history of the Dignity Health Sports Park. There is real history in the stadium and it is important for the league,” said Landon Donovan after the game.

Donovan was proud of his team

It was not going to be easy for the USL side because the Galaxy wanted to advance to the fourth round and fight for silverware this year, since the last time they won a trophy was the 2014 MLS Cup. A solo goal from Kévin Cabral in the 28th minute was enough for the Galaxy to defeat the Loyal and advance to the Fourth Round.

“I actually thought it was a really good game all around. I think the Galaxy have the second-best team in MLS because of the quality of players all over the field. It was a really good challenge for my team and I am a little disappointed that we didn’t score a goal. We play our style and it was a great game to be part of,” said Landon Donovan after the game.

Eriq Zavaleta made his debut

It was also a special night for Salvadoran defender Eriq Zavaleta as he made his debut with the Los Angeles Galaxy after arriving late at the start of the season. The Central American defender played the entire game and he was involved in the Cabral goal.