2018 U.S. Open Cup
Six stars on the crest: Galaxy complete a historic domestic double with an Open Cup triumph.
The 2018 U.S. Open Cup stands as a crowning achievement in the modern era of LA Galaxy, marking their sixth triumph in America's oldest ongoing national soccer competition. This victory was particularly significant as it completed a historic domestic double for the club, pairing with their 2018 MLS Supporters' Shield to cement one of the most successful seasons in franchise history under head coach Bob Bradley.
- Trophy Count
- 6th U.S. Open Cup title
- Final Opponent
- Philadelphia Union
- Final Result
- 2-1 Victory
- Key Scorer
- Riquelme (2 goals)
- Manager
- Bob Bradley
Lore & Background
Riquelme delivered a masterclass in midfield orchestration and finishing, scoring both goals for Los Angeles. The first goal came from a well-taken strike that broke the deadlock, while his second sealed the victory late in the game. This win was not just about the trophy; it represented the culmination of a season where the Galaxy dominated American soccer, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level on multiple fronts simultaneously.
In Their Own Story
The humidity hung heavy over PPL Park as the final whistle approached, but inside the Galaxy dressing room, the mood was already shifting toward celebration. Juan Pablo Riquelme sat quietly, his jersey stained with grass and sweat, reflecting on the two goals that had just secured the club's sixth Open Cup. The roar of the traveling fans echoed through the stadium, a testament to a season where every doubt about the team's depth had been silenced by pure dominance.
Reader's Guide
LA Galaxy U.S. Riquelme's brace in the final remains a defining moment of his tenure with the Galaxy. Statistically, this win capped off a season where the Galaxy became only the second team in MLS history to win both the Supporters' Shield and the U.S. Open Cup in the same year. The victory also extended their record for most consecutive seasons with an Open Cup appearance during that specific era.
Did You Know?
- The 2018 win made LA Galaxy the first team in MLS history to complete a domestic double (Supporters' Shield and U.S. Open Cup) twice, having previously done so in 2014.
- Javier Riquelme scored both goals in the final against Philadelphia Union, marking his second career hat-trick or brace in an Open Cup final for the club.
- This victory was Bob Bradley's first U.S. Open Cup title as head coach of LA Galaxy.