COG STUDIOS, Calif. — The LA Galaxy control their own playoff destiny with just three games remaining in the 2026 MLS regular season! But after surrendering two leads in a 2-2 draw against San Diego FC, can Greg Vanney’s team finish the job?
On this episode of Corner of the Galaxy, Josh Guesman and LA Times soccer reporter Kevin Baxter break down the San Diego draw, examine the Western Conference playoff race, and preview a massive El Tráfico against LAFC.
João Klauss continues to deliver! With nine goals despite missing much of the season, the striker is producing at a pace that could have put him near 20 goals over a full campaign. How many additional points could a healthy Klauss have earned the Galaxy? And can LA afford to keep him in 2027?
Meanwhile, JT Marcinkowski makes seven saves to rescue a point against San Diego. But questions remain about LA’s defense, Joseph Paintsil’s struggles, and whether the Galaxy have a player capable of taking over a game when it matters most.
Josh and Kevin also uncover a surprising statistical reality: Are the Galaxy actually better since the World Cup break?
Despite adding Chucky Lozano and Sergi Roberto and getting Klauss back, LA earned 20 points in its first 15 games and 20 points in its next 16. Home results have improved, but road performances have declined. Is this team genuinely better, or are appearances deceiving?
Then comes the MLS playoff math!
With 40 points and three matches remaining, the Galaxy can guarantee a postseason berth by winning out against LAFC, Austin FC, and Real Salt Lake. But Colorado and RSL remain threats, and unfavorable tiebreakers could make every dropped point costly.
Can the Galaxy avoid the eighth- and ninth-place play-in game? Is Halloween’s home matchup against Austin a potential trap? Could the season finale against Real Salt Lake determine LA’s playoff fate?
Plus, the guys examine Designated Player availability, the importance of Marco Reus, the potential return of Chucky Lozano for El Tráfico, and how Riqui Puig’s eventual return could influence the Galaxy’s roster decisions.
The Galaxy are 4-1-1 in their last six matches, but the biggest tests are still ahead.
Can Greg Vanney’s team turn its late-season improvement into a playoff appearance? Or will LA’s familiar weaknesses cost them when it matters most?
Join Corner of the Galaxy for LA Galaxy news, MLS analysis, injury updates, playoff scenarios, and everything you need to know before El Tráfico!
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