LAFC vs Real Salt Lake: Key MLS Showdown After Heavy Defeats
Los Angeles FC and Real Salt Lake Set for a Thrilling MLS Showdown at BMO Stadium
As the MLS season progresses, Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and Real Salt Lake are both eager to rebound from recent setbacks. These two Western Conference powerhouses, each with 43 points, are set to clash on Wednesday at BMO Stadium. LAFC currently leads the conference standings, edging out Real Salt Lake thanks to their superior number of victories. This encounter promises to be a thrilling contest as both teams look to get back to winning ways.
LAFC’s Recent Form and Challenges
A Streak Interrupted
LAFC entered the previous weekend riding high on an impressive string of performances. They had secured 12 wins in their last 13 competitive matches, with just one draw marring an otherwise flawless run. However, their momentum came to a surprising halt with a 5-1 defeat at home to Colombus Crew. The match saw Steve Cherundolo’s side reduced to nine men, making it a night to forget for the Black and Gold.
Maintaining Dominance in the Western Conference
Despite the setback, LAFC remains a formidable force in the Western Conference. They have won 13, drawn four, and lost five of their 22 MLS matches this season, retaining their spot at the top of the standings. Their home record is particularly impressive, with 29 points amassed from 12 matches at BMO Field, making them one of the toughest teams to beat on home turf.
Historical Performance Against Real Salt Lake
LAFC’s home advantage extends to their head-to-head record against Real Salt Lake. Out of eight competitive home meetings, LAFC has emerged victorious in six, losing only two. However, it is worth noting that one of those defeats occurred in their last encounter in Los Angeles, adding an extra layer of intrigue to Wednesday’s match.
Real Salt Lake’s Recent Form and Road Struggles
A Mixed Bag of Results
Real Salt Lake faced their own disappointment last weekend, suffering a 3-0 defeat away to Portland Timbers. While they have secured three wins in their last five matches, defensive frailties have been a concern for head coach Pablo Mastroeni. His side has conceded at least two goals in four of those five outings, highlighting a vulnerability that needs addressing.
Away Performance in the Western Conference
Despite recent struggles, Real Salt Lake has been one of the better-performing teams on the road in the Western Conference. They have collected 18 points from 12 away matches, a tally surpassed only by the Los Angeles Galaxy and Vancouver Whitecaps. This resilience away from home will be crucial if they are to complete an MLS double over LAFC, having won the reverse fixture 3-0 in March.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
LAFC’s Squad Updates
LAFC will be without the services of Lorenzo Dellavalle, who remains sidelined with an injury. Additionally, Sergi Palencia and Murillo are suspended following their red cards in the weekend’s match. These absences could see Aaron Long and Omar Campos step into the starting lineup. Timothy Tillman, having served a one-match ban, is expected to return and join Ilie Sanchez and Eduard Atuesta in midfield.
Real Salt Lake’s Injury Concerns
Real Salt Lake has several injury concerns of their own. Kevin Bonilla and Pablo Ruiz are both out with knee injuries, while Erik Holt and Marcelo Silva are sidelined with hamstring issues. Defender Justen Glad is a doubt, having missed the last six matches due to injury. Anderson Julio is likely to replace captain Cristian Arango, who is suspended for an accumulation of yellow cards.
Predicted 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
Key Match Predictions
With both teams level on points, Wednesday’s encounter is set to be a closely-fought battle. LAFC’s strong home record gives them a slight edge, and they will be keen to capitalize on home advantage to secure a narrow victory. The Black and Gold have won nine of their 12 home MLS matches this season, a statistic that could prove pivotal in this matchup.
FAQs
What is the current standing of LAFC and Real Salt Lake in the Western Conference?
Both teams are tied with 43 points, but LAFC leads the standings due to a higher number of victories.
How has LAFC performed at home this season?
LAFC has an excellent home record, collecting 29 points from 12 matches, making them one of the toughest teams to beat on home turf.
What are the recent form and defensive concerns for Real Salt Lake?
Real Salt Lake has won three of their last five matches but has conceded at least two goals in four of those outings, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities.
Who are the key players missing for both teams?
LAFC will be without Lorenzo Dellavalle due to injury and Sergi Palencia and Murillo due to suspensions. Real Salt Lake will miss Kevin Bonilla, Pablo Ruiz, Erik Holt, and Marcelo Silva due to injuries.
What are the predicted lineups for the match?
LAFC is expected to line up with Lloris, Hollingshead, Long, Chanot, Campos, Tillman, Sanchez, Atuesta, Bogusz, Bouanga, and Kamara. Real Salt Lake’s predicted lineup includes MacMath, Brody, Hidalgo, Ramirez, Katranis, Eneli, Ojeda, Gomez, Crooks, Luna, and Julio.
Conclusion
Wednesday’s MLS showdown between LAFC and Real Salt Lake is poised to be an exciting contest. Both teams are eager to bounce back from recent defeats and solidify their positions in the Western Conference standings. LAFC’s formidable home record and historical success against Real Salt Lake give them a slight edge, but Real Salt Lake’s resilience on the road means they cannot be underestimated. As the teams take to the field at BMO Stadium, fans can expect a closely-fought battle that could go down to the wire.
