Ghanaian forward Joseph Paintsil has taken his 2026 Major League Soccer goal tally to seven after scoring twice for LA Galaxy in their 2-2 draw against city rivals Los Angeles FC in the El Tráfico derby.
Paintsil’s latest brace takes his goal contributions to ten in the MLS regular season, having also provided three assists. The Ghana international continues to play an important attacking role for the Galaxy as the 2026 campaign approaches its conclusion.
The 28-year-old opened the scoring in the 34th minute, finishing a low cross from Robert Taylor at the far post to give LA Galaxy the lead. He then struck again in the 51st minute, reacting quickest to a rebound inside the penalty area to put his side 2-0 ahead.
Despite Paintsil’s efforts, LAFC fought back in the second half, scoring twice to secure a share of the points in the derby. The result denied Galaxy a victory despite the Ghanaian forward’s decisive contribution.
Paintsil’s performance also earned him recognition in the MLS Team of the Matchday for Matchday 32. According to LA Galaxy, he has now recorded seven goals and five assists in 24 regular-season appearances, including 20 starts, this season.
Across all competitions since joining LA Galaxy ahead of the 2024 campaign, Paintsil has registered 38 goals and 22 assists, underlining his continued contribution to the club’s attack.
