NYCFC and LA Galaxy tied 1-1 in their 2026 season opener, with Joao Klauss scoring early and Nicolas Fernandez equalizing via penalty after Emiro Garces was sent off.

New York City FC and the LA Galaxy drew 1-1 in their 2026 season opener, with Joao Klauss scoring in the second minute for LA, but NYCFC equalized in the 66th minute via a penalty kick by Nicolas Fernandez after Emiro Garces was sent off. The match, marked by 31 fouls and five yellow cards, saw NYCFC dominate possession and create chances, but they struggled to convert until Fernandez’s deflected shot. Matt Freese made six saves for NYCFC, including key stops, as both teams remained winless after the opener.