LA Galaxy forward Giovani dos Santos targets title after MLS debut

Posted Monday, August 10, 2015 by Foxsports.com

LA Galaxy forward Giovani dos Santos set his sights firmly on winning MLS Cup after scoring on his league debut for the club.

Dos Santos marked his first MLS start with a goal and an assist to spark the Galaxy to a 3-1 victory over Seattle Sounders on Sunday.

"I think we have a lot of possibilities," dos Santos said. "We can achieve every goal we want. We have a great team with a great attitude and great players. We’re looking forward to do a great year. Hopefully, we can get a title."

Dos Santos pointed toward the future after taking his first substantive step with the Galaxy. He debuted with a goal in the 5-1 romp over
Central FC in CONCACAF Champions League play on Thursday, but he started for the first time against the Sounders.

His resulting display included a pass to Keane in the buildup to the winner two minutes after halftime and a well-taken finish from a Keane ball behind the line to add the critical third just after the hour.

The former Villarreal schemer praised his teammates for their displays and underscored his own happiness after scoring his second goal in as many appearances.The overall performance -- including a goal from reigning MLS MVP Robbie Keane and a comprehensive second-half display to sweep aside the battling Sounders -- prompted the Mexico international forward to target silverware as he adjusts to his first season in the United States.

"I feel very happy," dos Santos said. "I think it was a difficult game. We conceded a very early goal in the first half, but I think the team did a great job. I am happy for my goal and for the victory for the team."

Galaxy manager Bruce Arena said he chose to play dos Santos up front to allow him to influence the match and manage his fitness on a warm summer afternoon at the StubHub Center.

"I like everything I saw today," Arena said.

Dos Santos placed the game into the same category after the Galaxy’s second-half show proved enough to dispatch the Sounders. He said he hopes to contribute in the final third of the season and push his team onwards in its quest to defend MLS Cup.

"I think we controlled the game," dos Santos said. "We have good players like Stevie [Gerrard] and Juninho who can pass the ball to me. We created a lot of chances, I think. For me, it’s easy to play with teammates like them. I feel very comfortable in that position. I’m looking forward to keep working hard and help my team."