Los Angeles FC and Real Salt Lake Look for Redemption in MLS Showdown
Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and Real Salt Lake are set to clash in an eagerly anticipated MLS encounter at BMO Stadium. Both teams aim to rebound from heavy defeats experienced over the weekend. With 43 points each this season, LAFC leads the Western Conference by virtue of their greater number of victories, setting the stage for an intense midweek battle.
LAFC’s Home Fortitude Tested
Recent Performance and Setbacks
LAFC had been riding an impressive wave of form, boasting 12 victories in their last 13 competitive matches, only drawing once. This streak, however, came to an abrupt halt with a shocking 5-1 home defeat against the Columbus Crew. Compounding their woes, Steve Cherundolo’s side finished the game with only nine men on the field.
Despite this rare stumble, LAFC remains atop the Western Conference standings, having won 13, drawn four, and lost five of their 22 MLS matches this season. Their home performance has been particularly commendable, with 29 points accumulated from 12 matches at BMO Field, the best home record in MLS thus far.
Historical Advantage Against Real Salt Lake
LAFC has generally fared well in home games against Real Salt Lake, winning six out of their eight competitive meetings. However, it’s worth noting that one of their two home losses to Real Salt Lake occurred in last year’s matchup in Los Angeles.
Real Salt Lake’s Road Challenges
Recent Form and Defensive Concerns
Real Salt Lake also faced disappointment last weekend, succumbing to a 3-0 defeat against the Portland Timbers. Although they have managed to win three of their last five matches, defensive frailties have been evident, with the team conceding at least two goals in four of those five encounters.
This recent defeat means Real Salt Lake has won only one of their previous six away matches. However, they remain one of the Western Conference’s top performers on the road, having collected 18 points from 12 away games, second only to the Los Angeles Galaxy and Vancouver Whitecaps.
Opportunity for Redemption
Wednesday’s game offers Real Salt Lake the chance to achieve an MLS double over LAFC, having secured a dominant 3-0 victory in their previous encounter in March.
Team News and Expected Lineups
LAFC Squad Updates
LAFC will be without Lorenzo Dellavalle, who is sidelined with an injury. Additionally, Sergi Palencia and Murillo are suspended after their red cards in the previous match. Aaron Long and Omar Campos are likely to step into the starting lineup as replacements.
Timothy Tillman, having served a one-match suspension, is expected to rejoin the midfield, playing alongside Ilie Sanchez and Eduard Atuesta.
Real Salt Lake Injury Woes
Real Salt Lake has their own injury concerns. Kevin Bonilla and Pablo Ruiz are both out due to knee injuries, while Erik Holt and Marcelo Silva are unavailable because of hamstring issues. Justen Glad remains doubtful, having missed the last six matches due to injury. Anderson Julio might replace captain Cristian Arango, who will serve a one-match ban for accumulating too many yellow cards.
Predicted Starting Lineups
Los Angeles FC:
– Goalkeeper: Lloris
– Defenders: Hollingshead, Long, Chanot, Campos
– Midfielders: Tillman, Sanchez, Atuesta
– Forwards: Bogusz, Bouanga, Kamara
Real Salt Lake:
– Goalkeeper: MacMath
– Defenders: Brody, Hidalgo, Ramirez, Katranis
– Midfielders: Eneli, Ojeda
– Attacking Midfielders: Gomez, Crooks, Luna
– Forward: Julio
Match Preview and Prediction
With both teams tied at 43 points, Wednesday’s encounter promises to be a closely contested affair. However, LAFC’s superior home record this season—having won nine of their 12 home matches—could tip the scales in their favor.
FAQs
What time is the LAFC vs. Real Salt Lake match?
– The match is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, though the exact time can vary. Check local listings for precise details.
Where can I watch the LAFC vs. Real Salt Lake game?
– The match will be broadcast on various sports networks and might also be available for streaming on MLS platforms and other streaming services.
Who are the key players to watch in this match?
– For LAFC, keep an eye on Bouanga and Kamara. Real Salt Lake’s key players include Gomez and Julio.
What injuries and suspensions affect the teams?
– LAFC will miss Lorenzo Dellavalle due to injury and Palencia and Murillo due to suspension. Real Salt Lake will be without Kevin Bonilla, Pablo Ruiz, Erik Holt, Marcelo Silva due to injuries, and Cristian Arango due to suspension.
What are the historical results between these two teams?
– LAFC has a favorable home record against Real Salt Lake, winning six out of their eight home meetings.
Conclusion
In conclusion, LAFC and Real Salt Lake are both looking to bounce back from recent setbacks. LAFC’s strong home record and historical advantage may give them the edge, but Real Salt Lake’s potential for an upset cannot be underestimated. The match promises to be an exciting and closely fought contest, offering fans plenty of action to look forward to.
