DC United are boosted by the return of Ortiz after his recent suspension. The return of Ortiz comes at a crucial time, with Mullins unavailable with injury. DC United continue to have a list of absentees, with DeLeon, Franklin and Vincent ruled out, whilst Boswell is also doubtful to play. In better news, Nyarko made a welcome return from injury in the last match, could start out wide. The hosts have struggled to deal with added expectations, performances this season have been bitterly disappointing. Just 1 win in 5 games, the pressure is building on coach Olsen to turn form around. The fans are frustrated with the lack of goals scored, just 10 in 13 league games, playing at home is not an advantage as DC United have lost their last 3 in front of own fans. Players lacking belief. A change in the system in midweek led to DC United using a 4-2-3-1 formation, strengthening the central midfield area. Expect the hosts to play on the counter-attack, sitting very deep and leaving the lone striker isolated in attack. Conceding the first goal would lead to fans growing restless, with players lacking the belief they can turn the score around and win the game.
LA Galaxy are without a host of key players for this match, with Steres the most recent player to pick up an injury. Already without the likes of Rogers and Lletget, LA Galaxy still have doubts over the availability of Jones. Should the midfielder fail to return, expect Garcia and Joao Pedro to play in central midfield. In attack, dos Santos is in fine form, and will be partnered by Zardes. LA Galaxy endured a poor start to the season but this now seems like a distant memory. Now 5 games unbeaten, LA Galaxy have won their last 3 which have all come away from home. The most recent win was against local rivals which is hugely important to the supporters. LA Galaxy are not intimidated playing on the road, will be looking for another win to continue the momentum and climb the table. The recent run of results have led LA Galaxy to play with more confidence and use an attacking approach. The 4-4-2 system will be used, with Alessandrini and Boateng providing the support out wide for dos Santos and Zardes. The visitors will aim for all 3 points, expect them to start on front foot. LA Galaxy have had good preparation time for this match, unlike the hosts which could be crucial.
Verdict & Prediction
Five games unbeaten and having won their last 3, LA Galaxy have transformed the mood around the club after a slow start to the season. Players are now taking more risks, playing with greater confidence on the ball. The run of form has happened with a number of key players missing also. LA Galaxy have won their last 3 matches on the road, meaning they will not be intimidated by this away trip. The players are determined to continue their run of form, highlighting the criticism they received earlier in the season as a reason for their upturn in form. Motivated to prove people wrong. The visitors will expect to get all 3 points, the goalscoring form has improved in recent weeks with key players in great form. Anything less than 3 points would be viewed as a disappointment, such is the confidence in the team. LA Galaxy still have a lot of work to do close gap on league leaders.
Prediction: Los Angeles Galaxy +0.25 Asian Handicap
Odds: 1.82 SBOBET
Don’t forget to check out our another preview for today: Corinthians v Santos – Brazil Serie A
