VIDEO: Joseph Paintsil scores in LA Galaxy's playoff victory over Colorado Rapids

Ghana forward Joseph Paintsil played a crucial role in the Los Angeles Galaxy's impressive 4-1 victory against the Colorado Rapids on Friday night, helping secure a place in the MLS Cup playoffs semifinals.

The match kicked off with an early goal from Gabriel Pec, who redirected a clearance from Rapids goalkeeper Zack Steffen into the net just eight minutes in, giving Galaxy a swift lead.

However, Colorado responded quickly, leveling the score with Oliver Larraz's unassisted goal in the 19th minute, marking his first postseason strike.

Just before halftime, Paintsil found the net in the third minute of stoppage time, capitalizing on a precise pass from Maya Yoshida.

This goal not only marked Paintsil's first in the playoffs but also allowed LA to head into the break with a 2-1 advantage.

The Galaxy's dominance continued in the second half, with midfielder Riqui Puig sealing the victory by scoring two goals in stoppage time, one in the first and another in the third minute of added time.

Throughout the 2024 MLS season, Paintsil has been in remarkable form, netting 11 goals and providing seven assists in 31 appearances, solidifying his importance to the Galaxy as they advance in the playoffs.