Revenge on the cards in LA derby
The final Los Angeles derby of the MLS group stage in the early hours of Saturday morning, always one of the most exciting dates in the MLS calendar.
Los Angeles FC are the hosts for this one and will be seeking revenge having lost to Los Angeles Galaxy twice already this year, once in the reverse fixture and also in the US Open Cup.
Galaxy are in a strong position in the Western Conference despite being a little bit off the pace that LAFC have set, but results are required to solidify their spot in the play-offs, currently fourth, only having a three-point cushion inside the top seven.
This will be a good test for LAFC as they prepare for the play-offs, which have not been so kind to them in recent years.
Process
The hosts are better in both boxes so far this season, but put in a very drab display to lose 1-0 away to Vancouver Whitecaps in their last match.
LAFC have played once more than the visitors in MLS so far, but they have scored 11 more goals, overperforming to notch 35 goals from 31.1 expected goals (xG) for.
The Galaxy are also very strong in attacking third though, but have underperformed in their finishing to score just 24 from 28.8 xGF, at an average of 1.69 xGF per game compared to the hosts’ 1.73.
Defensively, LAFC are very strong and will be hoping that they can establish some control in the game with an assured display at the back.
The hosts have conceded 19 from 17.9 xGA so far this season, allowing just 0.99 xGA per game on average, it is a matter of ensuring they are in the best shape possible for the play-offs at this point.
Galaxy are also solid at the back, conceding 19 from 18 games and allowing just 1.17 xGA per game on average, however the derby feel could inspire the attacking contingent come Saturday.
Goals?
Overs was a temptation but the lines are so high, with both sides very competent defensively, I am more comfortable with an outright angle.
LAFC have scored in eight of ten.
LAFC have conceded in seven of ten.
LAFC have seen both teams score in five of ten.
LAFC have seen over 2.5 goals in four of ten.
Galaxy have scored in nine of ten.
Galaxy have conceded in nine of ten.
Galaxy have seen both teams score in eight of ten.
Galaxy have seen over 2.5 goals in eight of ten.
Post bet chat Marcus's Tips:
Always entertaining, 3-2 LAFC.