In a thrilling start to their 2025 Major League Soccer campaign, the Vancouver Whitecaps defeated the LA Galaxy 2-1 in their home opener at BC Place on Sunday. The win marked the Whitecaps' first home opener victory since 2018 and extended their unbeaten streak to three games across all competitions.
The excitement was clear from the start. Fans, including the passionate Southsiders, marched through the streets of Vancouver, ready to cheer on their team. Pre-match activities in the Terry Fox Plaza set the tone for what would be an unforgettable evening of soccer.
A Historic Start for Adekugbe
The Whitecaps wasted no time making an impact on the scoreboard. Sam Adekugbe, who had already made waves by scoring in Vancouver's season opener, added another goal to his impressive early-season tally. In the third minute, the Canadian international capitalized on a rebound from a Pedro Vite cross, tapping the ball in from close range to give Vancouver a 1-0 lead.
Adekugbe’s goal not only gave the Whitecaps an early advantage but also made history, as he became just the second defender in MLS history to score in the first two games of the season. He joined an exclusive list with Seattle Sounders’ Kelvin Leerdam, who achieved the feat in 2019.
However, the joy was short-lived for Adekugbe, who was forced off the pitch in tears after a collision with a Galaxy player in the 26th minute. Adekugbe tried to shake off the injury on the sideline but eventually left the field for good, his face buried in his hands as his teammates comforted him.
Galaxy Respond with Equalizer
With Adekugbe sidelined, LA Galaxy seized the opportunity to level the match. Gabriel Pec found space in the 39th minute and unleashed a shot that rang off the inside of the post, finding the back of the net and bringing the score to 1-1.
Despite the setback, the Whitecaps remained composed, and although they looked a bit flat toward the end of the first half, head coach Jesper Sorensen made tactical adjustments at halftime to rejuvenate his squad.
Brian White’s Late Heroics
The second half was dominant for the Caps. Vancouver would emerge victorious, thanks to some late-game heroics from Brian White. With just minutes remaining in the 87th minute, Pedro Vite delivered a perfect cross, and White met it with his head, directing the ball past Galaxy goalkeeper Novak Micovic to give the Whitecaps a 2-1 lead.
White’s third goal of the week, across all competitions, ensured that the Whitecaps would walk away with all three points. It was a fantastic moment for the striker, who has made a strong start to the season.
A Strong Start Under Sorensen
The victory was especially meaningful for new head coach Jesper Sorensen, who has now led Vancouver to a perfect start in his first two matches. Sorensen, who took over the team in mid-January, credited his players for their hard work and adaptability to his new tactical approach.
“I think first and foremost, I came in and inherited a team that was well-structured and in good shape,” Sorensen said post-match. “I would say that the team has looked great. They’ve done well in the pre-season. Everybody has chipped in and been ready for the new ideas I brought in. I can only be happy with what I’ve seen so far and hope it’s only the beginning.”
Veteran striker White also spoke highly of the team’s quick adaptation to Sorensen’s system. “I think everyone’s bought into the new philosophy, the game plan… Little bit of a change of pace and I think everyone’s bought in and feels energized. And I think you’re seeing a good product out on the field.”
Looking Ahead
The Whitecaps will now turn their attention to a midweek clash against Liga MX’s CF Monterrey in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. But before that, all eyes will be on the recovery of Adekugbe, who Sorensen revealed is dealing with a quad injury. The coach expressed hope that the injury wouldn't be too serious, but its impact on the team's lineup remains to be seen.
The win over LA Galaxy marks a strong statement for Vancouver in the early stages of the 2025 season, and as the Whitecaps continue their march forward, their supporters will be filled with anticipation for what’s to come.
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