MLS Review: Ibrahimovic, Rooney braces lift Galaxy and DC

Former Manchester United team-mates Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Wayne Rooney both scored twice to lead MLS play-off hopefuls LA Galaxy and DC United to respective wins.

Ibrahimovic netted a brace as the Galaxy boosted their post-season hopes with a 3-0 victory over Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday.

The 36-year-old striker scored in the 3-0 win against Seattle Sounders last time out and he was at it again with a pair of goals at Stubhub Center.

Ibrahimovic broke the deadlock via the penalty spot in the fourth minute after Romain Alessandrini was fouled inside the area.

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The Swedish great doubled the lead approaching the hour-mark with a thunderous effort – his 20th of the season – before earning a penalty, which Alessandrini converted with 13 minutes remaining.

Saturday's win moved Galaxy within a point of sixth-placed Real Salt Lake in the Western Conference, while the Whitecaps are four points back.

Ex-United captain Rooney was at the double as DC demolished Montreal Impact 5-0 to close within two points of the play-off spots in the Eastern Conference.

DC were dominant thanks to Rooney, who scored twice in the second half and added an assist against the Impact.

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After firing past Evan Bush in the 48th minute, Rooney scored from 40 yards following a failed clearance from the Impact keeper eight minutes from the end.

Paul Arriola also posted a brace, while Luciano Acosta opened the scoring in Washington.

Los Angeles FC lost ground in the west after their shock 3-1 defeat to lowly Chicago Fire, New York City were stunned by Minnesota United 2-1, the Sounders crushed Colorado Rapids 4-0, Toronto rallied to beat New England Revolution 4-1 and Houston Dynamo scored three unanswered goals to overcome San Jose Earthquakes 3-2.

Dallas were held to a 0-0 by Portland Timbers, while Columbus Crew and Philadelphia Union drew by the same scoreline.

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