LA Galaxy vs. Club America: Takeaways from International Champions Cup Match

Los Angeles Galaxy opened their International Champions Cup foray vs. Club America with a 2-1 victory.

After a brilliant opening goal from CF America's Darwin Quintero, playing on the edge of the Galaxy's defensive line, then scoring through Brian Rowe's legs—Los Angeles battled back.

Former Tottenham Hotspur striker Robbie Keane leveled the scoreline, after a sublime first touch in the 45th minute; beating both his defender and the goalkeeper in one motion, the MLS MVP rolled the ball into an empty net.

"

Reigning MLS MVP Robbie Keane draws the Galaxy level with a first-class touch and finish. #ICConFOX http://t.co/DpVg2NojEY

— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) July 12, 2015"

After a massive wave of eight new Galaxy players at halftime, the game stalled in the second half, but Alan Gordon gave Bruce Arena's side a 79th-minute winner—using his head to great effect, lobbing Club America keeper Hugo Gonzalez.

The friendly had drama, and that would have been the main story, but the reason people came was to see ex-Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard. Making his debut for the Galaxy, the 35-year-old central midfielder looked his usual composed self in his opening half of North American football.

What Gerrard needs now is time—time to find rapport with his new team-mates, time to find fitness and time to find his scoring boots in a new environment.

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

At Anfield, especially under Brendan Rodgers, the Merseyside product went prolonged periods without scoring from open play, so expecting him to find 20 goals with the Galaxy is wholly unrealistic; what he must do, however, is score the goals on offer.

His best chance to open his L.A. account (even if during a glorified exhibition match) came in the 22nd minute. Whilst one-on-one with Gonzalez from about 10 yards—after a bursting run into the penalty area—Gerrard smacked his shot into the Mexican keeper and looked disgusted in himself for failing to register.

Given time, opportunities such as that will find the back of American nets, but for now, match fitness should be Gerrard's No. 1 priority. Not playing a competitive game since his final Liverpool appearance on 24 May vs. Stoke City, the 35-year-old's body will need an acclimation period, and playing against arguably North America's best footballing side in Club America (who are in pre-season) was a stern and much-needed test.

Stephen Dunn/Getty Images

So then, what can we take away from this 2015 International Champions Cup opener? Three things.

First: Club America are a dangerous counter-attacking outfit, who—even when not at full strength—have the technical skill and pace to cause many teams problems.

Second: Robbie Keane is probably a wizard of some sort. His first touch to score was magic. It would have beaten the planet's best defenders were they on hand.

Third: Steven Gerrard—anytime he steps on a football pitch—is a quality operator. The Liverpool legend will succeed in Los Angeles once he begins to play regularly, learn his team-mates' tendencies and find his legs.

Follow @danieltiluk

*Stats via WhoScored.com; transfer fees via Soccerbase where not noted.