Xolos lose 5-2 to LA Galaxy in Leagues Cup as Gilberto Mora scores twice

Xolos fall 5-2 to LA Galaxy in the Leagues Cup despite Gilberto Mora’s brace

Tijuana remains winless in the tournament, though young standout Gilberto Mora once again proves to be the team’s brightest talent

Strong start ends in another heavy defeat

Los Angeles, July 30 – Club Tijuana suffered another blow in the Leagues Cup, falling 5-2 to LA Galaxy in a match that began with pace and intensity but ultimately exposed the team’s defensive frailties.

The game kicked off with a penalty goal for the hosts in the 17th minute, converted by Matheus Nascimento. But Tijuana quickly responded: Gilberto Mora, the 19-year-old midfielder, leveled the score in the 21st minute with a strike from outside the box.

Gilberto Mora shines again with a brace

Despite the final scoreline, young Gilberto Mora continued to stand out as the brightest performer for Xolos. In the 59th minute, he scored his second goal of the night with another powerful effort from distance, cutting the deficit to 3-2 and giving his team a temporary lifeline.

At just 19 years old, Mora has been a consistent spark in Tijuana’s lineup, showcasing vision, technical ability, and fearlessness. While the team continues to struggle, his performances are increasingly setting him apart as a future cornerstone of the club.

Galaxy finishes strong and punishes Tijuana’s defense

After Tijuana’s second goal, LA Galaxy regained control. Joseph Paintsil scored twice—once in the 65th and again in stoppage time (90+1)—while Marco Reus added another in the 82nd minute with a left-footed finish into the corner.

Xolos created chances but lacked clinical finishing. Despite attempts by Shamar Nicholson and Frank Boya, the Galaxy defense stood firm, and goalkeeper Novak Micovic made several key saves to preserve the advantage.

Xolos still winless in Leagues Cup play

This latest defeat extends Xolos' winless streak in the Leagues Cup, leaving their hopes of advancing hanging by a thread. While the team continues to show effort and glimpses of promise, defensive lapses and tactical inconsistency remain critical issues.

Gilberto Mora once again walked away as the team’s best player, but individual brilliance alone won’t be enough for Tijuana to thrive in this competitive binational tournament.