LA Galaxy vs New York City FC
The 2026 MLS season kicks off in style with a Sunday Night Soccer showdown as the LA Galaxy vs New York City FC on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at 7:00 PM ET (4:00 PM PT). The match takes place at Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California.
Both teams begin the new campaign with fresh ambitions — Galaxy looking to build on their strong recent seasons, while NYCFC aim to improve after an inconsistent preseason.
This opening-weekend fixture promises an entertaining contest. LA Galaxy enter the match with renewed defensive options and attacking threats, while NYCFC will rely on their experienced midfield core and pressing style to challenge the hosts. Early-season points could set the tone for the months ahead.
LA Galaxy vs New York City FC Date, Time, Team News, Team Players and How to Watch
- Tournament: MLS 2026 Regular Season
- Date: Sunday, 22 February 2026
- Venue: Dignity Health Sports Park, Carson, California
- Kick-off: 4:00 PM PT / 7:00 PM ET / 5:30 AM IST (23 Feb)
- Live Streaming: Apple TV (MLS Season Pass) worldwide
LA Galaxy
After missing the 2025 playoffs despite being defending MLS Cup champions, the Galaxy have rebuilt this offseason aggressively.
Key additions include defenders Jakob Glesnes (from Philadelphia) and Justin Haak, winger Erik Thommy, and striker João Klauss (from St. Louis).
However, star midfielder Ricard Puig remains sidelined for the entire 2026 season due to complications from his previous ACL injury.
Coach Greg Vanney will rely on a revamped backline and new attacking pieces to start the season strongly at home.
New York City FC
NYCFC finished the 2025 season strongly and enter 2026 with continuity under coach Pascal Jansen.
They have no major new injuries reported, though they will be without Alonso Martínez (cruciate ligament) and Keaton Parks for the opener.
The squad features a balanced mix of experience and youth, with focus on midfield control and quick transitions.
Match Preview
This opening weekend clash pits two teams with very different 2025 endings: the Galaxy looking to rebound from playoff disappointment, and NYCFC aiming to build on a solid finish.
The Galaxy’s home crowd and new signings give them an early edge, but NYCFC’s tactical discipline under Jansen makes this a dangerous away game. Expect an open, attacking match as both sides look to start the season with three points.
Head-to-Head Record
LA Galaxy and New York City FC have met 18 times in MLS history, with NYCFC holding a slight edge (8 wins, 5 draws, 5 losses for the Galaxy).
Their most recent meeting ended in a 2-2 draw. Matches are typically high-scoring and competitive.
LA Galaxy vs New York City FC Predicted XI Lineups
- LA Galaxy (4-2-3-1): Marcinkowski; Cuevas, Yoshida, Glesnes, Nelson; Haak, Cerrillo, Pec, Paintsil; Ramirez, Nascimento.
- New York City FC (4-2-3-1): Freese; Gray, Martins, Murray, Gustavo; Ojeda, Wolf, O’Neill, Shore; Magno, Yañez.
Key Players to Watch
- LA Galaxy:
- João Klauss (new striker) and Erik Thommy (creative midfielder) will be vital in attack.
- Joseph Paintsil – Versatile winger and goal threat, already influential in preseason.
- NYCFC:
- Hannes Wolf and Alonso Martínez (if fit) provide danger, while Matt Freese anchors the defense.
Match Prediction
The Galaxy are slight favorites at home with their new signings and strong preseason. NYCFC will pose a threat on the counter, but LA’s home advantage and attacking additions should secure a narrow opening-day win.
- LA Galaxy 2-1 New York City FC
Where to Watch LA Galaxy vs New York City FC
- USA: Live on Apple TV (MLS Season Pass) with English and Spanish commentary.
- Kickoff: 7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT
- Highlights and full replay available on Apple TV and MLSsoccer.com.