***Rodrigues# 26 trying to Split Reus #18 and Yamane #2*** *Photo Credit: Jose Martinez*

Date: Saturday, June 29, 2025
Venue: Stanford Stadium, Stanford, CA

The San Jose Earthquakes and LA Galaxy battled to an electric 1-1 draw in the latest edition of the California Clásico, entertaining more than 40,000 fans in a vibrant atmosphere at Stanford Stadium. The rivalry, one of Major League Soccer’s fiercest, lived up to its billing with big moments, end-to-end action, and high stakes for both sides.

***Galaxy disappointed on being down early*** *Photo Credit: Jose Martinez*

First Half: Quakes Strike Early

San Jose took the initiative from the opening whistle, pressing the Galaxy high up the field and forcing several early turnovers. The pressure paid off in the 16th minute.

Mark-Anthony Kaye picked up a loose ball in midfield and threaded a perfectly timed pass between LA’s center backs. Beau Leroux, a San Jose native who has become a fan favorite this season, made a smart diagonal run and calmly finished low past Galaxy goalkeeper Micovic.

The goal sent the Quakes faithful into raucous celebrations, with blue smoke billowing from the supporters’ section behind the goal. San Jose continued to push forward, creating chances through Cristian Espinoza and Chicho Arango, but couldn’t extend their lead before halftime.

***Marco Reus #18 Celebrates with teamates.*** *Photo Credit: Jose Martinez*

Galaxy Equalize Through Reus

LA Galaxy struggled to gain momentum early on but gradually grew into the game. Midfielder Marco Reus began dictating play, helping the Galaxy string together longer spells of possession.

Their persistence paid off in the 70th minute. A cross from Julian Aude caused chaos in the San Jose penalty area. After a couple of deflections, the ball fell kindly to Marco Reus, who instinctively poked it into the net from close range.

Reus, who joined the Galaxy this season in a high-profile move from Borussia Dortmund, notched his fourth MLS goal and added to his growing reputation as LA’s leader in attack. The German’s celebration in front of the traveling fans ignited a loud roar from the Galaxy faithful.

***Gabriel Pec #11 looking to cross ball in area***. Photo Credit: Jose Martinez

Late Drama But No Winner

The final 20 minutes saw chances at both ends. San Jose’s Espinoza crossed a ball to Arango and shot a volley towards keeper Micovic, which he saved a hard power shot volley. Joseph Painstil and Gabriel Pec continued to be very dangerous for the Galaxy, with runs on both sides causing problems for the San Jose Earthquake wingers.

Overall the game was really going both ways, both teams fought hard till the last whistle and unfortunately they have to share the points.

Tactical Takeaways

San Jose Earthquakes

Fast Start: San Jose’s pressing game unsettled LA early, creating turnovers and leading to their opening goal.
Midfield Work Rate: Kaye and Leroux covered significant ground, limiting Galaxy’s ability to build through the middle.
Missed Opportunities: Despite the positive start, the Quakes will rue not converting more of their chances.

LA Galaxy

Reus the Difference Maker: Reus again showed his quality, popping up in the right place for the equalizer and nearly grabbing a winner.
Improved Possession: After a shaky first half, LA controlled more of the ball in the second half, helping them claw back into the match.
Defensive Concerns: Galaxy’s backline looked vulnerable under San Jose’s early pressure and will need tightening up.

Rivalry Context

The California Clásico has been a highlight of the MLS calendar since the league’s inception in 1996. Saturday’s clash marked the 104th meeting between these clubs in all competitions.

All-time series: LA Galaxy lead with 50 wins, 34 losses, and 20 draws.
Stanford Stadium tradition: San Jose have hosted annual Clásico matches at Stanford Stadium since 2012, typically drawing massive crowds and delivering memorable moments.

This latest edition kept that tradition alive with its mix of passion, drama, and spectacle.

What’s Next?

LA Galaxy return to Dignity Health Sports Park next Saturday to host the Vancouver Whitecaps. With only one win in their last ten matches, they’ll look to turn draws into crucial victories as they chase a playoff spot.
San Jose Earthquakes Host NY Red Bulls on Saturday night, aiming to keep building momentum and strengthen their position in the Western Conference playoff race.

**Chicho Arango# 9 San José Earthquakes Striker.** *Photo Credit: Jose Martinez*

Final Thoughts

Saturday’s California Clásico delivered exactly what fans expect from this fierce rivalry: early goals, late drama, and a fiery atmosphere. San Jose showed aggression and home pride but couldn’t secure all three points. LA Galaxy, despite a slow start, displayed resilience and relied on the class of Marco Reus to salvage a draw.

Both teams leave Stanford Stadium with reasons for optimism but also areas needing improvement as the MLS season reaches its crucial summer stretch.

California Clásico Ends 1-1 at Stanford Stadium