MLS Review: Ibrahimovic, Rooney braces lift Galaxy and DC
Ibrahimovic netted a brace as the Galaxy boosted their post-season hopes with a 3-0 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday.
The 36-year-old striker scored in the 3-0 win against Seattle Sounders last time out and he was at it again with a pair of goals at Stubhub Center.
Ibrahimovic broke the deadlock via the penalty spot in the fourth minute after Romain Alessandrini was fouled inside the area.
Magic from @Ibra_official. pic.twitter.com/gU6ATeSJ7u
- LA Galaxy (@LAGalaxy) September 30, 2018
The Swedish great doubled the lead approaching the hour-mark with a thunderous effort – his 20th of the season – before earning a penalty, which Alessandrini converted with 13 minutes remaining.
Saturday's win moved Galaxy within a point of sixth-placed Real Salt Lake in the Western Conference, while the Whitecaps are four points back.
Ex-United captain Rooney was at the double as DC demolished Montreal Impact 5-0 to close within two points of the play-off spots in the Eastern Conference.
DC were dominant thanks to Rooney, who scored twice in the second half and added an assist against the Impact.
.@WAYNEROONEY. IS THIS REAL LIFE. #DCU | #DCvMTL 5-0 pic.twitter.com/9jAP9gKtzL
— D.C. United (@dcunited) September 30, 2018
After firing past Evan Bush in the 48th minute, Rooney scored from 40 yards following a failed clearance from the Impact keeper eight minutes from the end.
Paul Arriola also posted a brace, while Luciano Acosta opened the scoring in Washington.
Los Angeles FC lost ground in the west after their shock 3-1 defeat to lowly Chicago Fire, New York City were stunned by Minnesota United 2-1, the Sounders crushed Colorado Rapids 4-0, Toronto rallied to beat New England Revolution 4-1 and Houston Dynamo scored three unanswered goals to overcome San Jose Earthquakes 3-2.
Dallas were held to a 0-0 by Portland Timbers, while Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union drew by the same scoreline.