The LA Galaxy will target what could be a season-resurrecting victory when they host rivals LAFC on Sunday afternoon.
After losing to LAFC in last year’s Western Conference semifinal, the Galaxy (0-3-3, 3 points) have been among the biggest disappointments in the MLS so far this season. Their six-match winless start to the season is their longest since 2003.
But a win against the defending MLS Cup champion could go a long way toward restoring morale. And the Galaxy also expect to have the services of striker Javier “Chicharito” Hernandez after he missed the opening six games with a hamstring injury.
Chicharito led the Galaxy with 18 goals last season, and without him they’ve scored only three goals, tied for the second-lowest total in MLS.
Even if Chicharito only has enough fitness to contribute as a second-half substitute, Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney said his team is confident in its ability despite its struggles.
“They know a game like this is a big opportunity to turn the season around,” he said. “And these games come down to just competing, out-competing your opposition, finishing your opportunities when you get them.”
That’s something LAFC (4-0-2, 14 points) have had little trouble doing, scoring an average of twice a game in league play while balancing a run to the CONCACAF Champions League semifinals.
Denis Bounaga’s six MLS goals were the second-highest total in the league ahead of Saturday’s games. And although he failed to score in Champions League play on Tuesday night, LAFC cruised to a 3-0 win on the night over Vancouver and a 6-0 win in the total goals quarterfinal series.
Manager Steve Cherundolo’s side had only five days to prepare for this latest edition of the rivalry, which is a bit unusual considering the history of these sides since LAFC joined MLS in 2018.
“This is obviously highlighted on everybody’s calendar,” Cherundolo said. “But we’ve been so focused on the task at hand the past couple weeks that we really haven’t thought about this game too much prior to our second-leg match against Vancouver.”
–Field Level Media
