LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Galaxy is returning Sunday to Dignity Health Sports Park for the team's home opener after a thrilling 3-2 victory against Inter Miami in the season opener.  

The team will take on the New York Red Bulls, and opening day is highly anticipated because it is the first time in over a year that fans will be able to watch in person.

General Manager of AEG and Dignity Health Sports Park, Katie Pandolfo, has been counting down the days, hours and minutes. 

"414 days since we have had fans in this beautiful stadium," Pandolfo said.

Having worked with Dignity Health Sports Park since 2004, she knows just how special opening day is for the LA Galaxy and their fans.

"As a soccer fan, opening day is just an absolutely magical time. That is the best thing about working in sports, is that you have this chance to start over," Pandolfo said.

More preparations have been underway to get to Sunday's opening day as Pandolfo and the Galaxy worked closely with health and state guidelines to make sure nearly 7,000 fans could return safely.

Health protocols fall in line with what most have practiced throughout the pandemic — mask-wearing, social distancing and spaced seating among the bleachers. The open nature of DHSP and its vast concourse mean the Galaxy can keep the match experience feeling pretty close to normal.  

Pandolfo sees some of the changes to create a near contactless experience as upgrades.

"Between mobile parking, mobile ticketing and mobile food ordering, especially for a soccer match when you don't want to miss a minute of the action," she said.

The Galaxy will look to improve their record under Coach Greg Vanney to 2-0 on Sunday with a 2:30 p.m. kick.

Fans with questions about what they need to know ahead of game days this season can get information on the LA Galaxy app.