Monday, May 12, 2025

White's Brace Rescues Point

Striker Scores Twice Ahead of Champions Cup Final in a Few Weeks

Brian White proved his goalscoring prowess once again, netting both goals in Vancouver Whitecaps' impressive comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against Los Angeles FC on Sunday. The American striker's heroics maintained Vancouver's position atop the Western Conference standings with 27 points from their impressive 8-1-3 record.

LAFC appeared to be cruising to victory after taking a two-goal lead within the opening half-hour. Mark Delgado opened the scoring in the 18th minute, capitalizing on a goalmouth scramble to fire home at the back post. Denis Bouanga doubled the advantage from the penalty spot eleven minutes later after Edier Ocampo brought down Ryan Hollingshead.

However, White immediately sparked the comeback in the 26th minute, rising brilliantly to head home Sebastian Berhalter's well-delivered free-kick. The American striker completed the revival with 20 minutes remaining when he positioned himself perfectly to nod in his second header of the match from Ali Ahmed's clever knockdown across the face of the goal.

Despite recording the fewest touches (25) of any outfield player who completed 90 minutes, White made every moment count with his clinical finishing. His aerial dominance was impressive, winning three of four aerial duels while converting both shots on target. The brace elevated White to the joint-top of the MLS Golden Boot race with eight goals in nine appearances this season, alongside Cristian Arango, Hugo Cuypers, and Tai Baribo.

This performance adds to White's remarkable form in 2025, with 13 goals in 17 games across all competitions. Vancouver's resilience extends beyond this match, as they remain unbeaten in their last eleven games across all competitions (6-0-5). The Whitecaps will need to maintain this momentum as they prepare for their historic CONCACAF Champions Cup final against Mexican giants Cruz Azul on June 1, where they aim to become the first Canadian club to win the prestigious tournament.

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