Joseph Paintsil Shines with Goal & Assist as LA Galaxy Fight Back to Draw FC Dallas
Joseph Paintsil delivered a sensational performance to inspire LA Galaxy to a dramatic 2-2 comeback draw against FC Dallas in their MLS clash on Saturday night.
The Ghana international winger, representing the Ghana national football team, was at the heart of Galaxy’s resurgence, registering both a goal and an assist in what was his first start after returning from injury.
His impact proved decisive as the visitors overturned a two-goal deficit in an entertaining contest at Toyota Stadium in Frisco, Texas.
The home side had looked firmly in control early on, with Petar Musa netting twice in the 7th and 38th minutes to give Dallas a comfortable 2-0 lead.
LA Galaxy struggled to find rhythm for much of the first half, but Paintsil’s spark late in the opening period completely changed the complexion of the game.
In the 43rd minute, the 26-year-old turned creator, setting up Lucas Sanabria with a well-timed pass that was calmly converted to halve the deficit.
Just moments later, Paintsil crowned his performance with a goal of his own, latching onto a precise through ball from Gabriel Pec and finishing emphatically in stoppage time to bring the game level.
The winger’s contribution not only secured a valuable point but also extended LA Galaxy’s scoring streak to 17 consecutive MLS matches—the longest active run in the league.
Speaking to club media after the match, Paintsil opened up about his journey back from injury and the emotions of making such an impactful return. He reflected on the challenges he has faced in recent weeks, saying, “It’s been a rough journey for me with injuries. But now just thank God for me coming back, me having an assist and a goal. It seems really wonderful.”
He also highlighted the difficulty of playing away from home and the team’s determination to keep pushing forward. Emphasizing the collective spirit within the squad, he added, “We just keep on going because coming here and playing is really tough. And we have at this point is really something great.”
Looking ahead, Paintsil underlined the importance of maintaining focus as the season progresses, particularly with another crucial fixture on the horizon. He noted, “So we keep on and we just keep working for Columbus and we just take something there and we come home and then we finish it there.”
After missing the March international break due to injury, Paintsil appears to be back to his best, seamlessly picking up where he left off.
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, his return to form is a timely boost for Ghana.
Having missed out on the previous tournament despite being in scintillating form, the winger will be eager to cement his place in the Black Stars squad and play a key role on football’s biggest stage
