Gareth Bale took centre-stage in raucous celebrations alongside his new LAFC team-mates after their dramatic 3-2 derby win over LA Galaxy on Friday night.
The 32-year-old had only arrived in Los Angeles earlier that day, and was introduced to a standing ovation at a sold out Banc of California Stadium ahead of kick-off, in a clash many have dubbed 'El Trafico'.
A brace from Jose Cifuentes and a Cristian Arango strike proved enough to hand the home side the victory, much to the delight of Bale, who could be seen celebrating in the stands at each goal.
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Bale was then at the heart of the post-match festivities, getting behind the megaphone to lead his team-mates in a triumphant chant in front of a jubilant home crowd.
The Welshman was technically eligible to play, but wasn't considered ready for this encounter, meaning he will likely have to wait a little longer for his debut.
"You saw how quickly a player gets integrated into our circle," LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo said. "We will get Gareth in [kit] ASAP.
"He was ready tonight, but I think it would have been asking a little much to have him come off the plane and right into the game."
LAFC travel to Nashville on July 18, before heading to Sporting Kansas City on July 24. One would suspect Bale will make his long-awaited debut in one of those games.
For now, though, he appears happy to soak up the warm reception. Speaking to ESPN, he said: "What an incredible reception I had when I came in.
"I want to come here. I want to play games and make my stamp and do as best I can to try and help LAFC win a trophy.
"And I can help with the youngsters because it's a very young team here, give them advice, seeing what I do in terms of professional standard and try to help them.
"The league is a growing league. It was an exciting opportunity I felt was right for me and my family.
"It's very new but it's something that's really glamorous. It's just a very attractive club."
It feels a far cry from the negativity Bale experienced out in Madrid, although his name still managed to find its way into the Spanish papers on Saturday morning. After Bale left a message to fans in Spanish following his unveiling, Marca ran an article entitled 'Bale goes to the United States to speak Spanish'.
One of the criticisms levelled at Bale during his time with Real was his apparent inability to speak the language, an accusation that was frequently denied by the player's camp. Nevertheless, it's clearly an allegation that clearly continues to stick.
"It has taken nine years to hear Gareth Bale speak Spanish well," this latest article claimed, before then going to point out the strong Spanish-speaking influence in the LA dressing room, which includes the likes of former Arsenal man Carlos Vela.
Nevertheless, the move Stateside represents a new chapter for Bale, who will be eager to ensure he's fit and firing on all cylinders ahead of the upcoming World Cup this winter.
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