LAFC beat Philadelphia on penalties to win 1st MLS Cup

Los Angeles, Nov 5 (EFE).- Los Angeles FC won their first Major League Soccer Cup on Saturday, prevailing over the Philadelphia Union on penalties after the teams completed 130 minutes knotted 3-3.

Kellyn Acosta put the hosts ahead with a goal in the 28th minute and Daniel Gazdag replied for the Union just before the hour mark. LAFC appeared to have the game in the bag when Jesus Murillo scored in the 83rd minute.

Just two minutes later, however, Jack Elliott equalized for the visitors to force extra time.

He added a second in the 124th minute, only to see late sub Gareth Bale bring the hosts level four minutes later and send the final to penalties.

LAFC entered the shootout with backup keeper John McCarthy in the net, as starter Maxime Crepeau injured himself committing a red card foul in extra time.

But McCarthy proved more than equal to the task, stopping two Philadelphia shooters and watching Gazdag send his effort over the cross-bar after losing his footing.

Cristian Tello, Denis Bouanga and Ryan Hollingshead all converted for the home side. EFE dvp/dr