LOS ANGELES, Calif. (June 19, 2019) – LAFC continue their quest for trophies this week. The Black and Gold will host the U.S. Open Cup Round of 16 in-state rivalry match, against the San Jose Quakes. The last time these two sides shared the pitch, it ended in a rout for Los Angeles, cruising to the 0-5 road win. While this time around may be different in terms of squad, with LAFC still missing players on International duty, last week’s 2019 Open Cupresult should have put to rest that concern.
2019 Open Cup Round of 16 Features In-State Rivalry
LAFC
The home side come into the match in excellent form. LAFC have scored 16 goals over the last seven matches, with Carlos Vela netting six himself. Even while dealing with several key absences, LAFC look strong at the back. Those who have been asked, have stepped up wonderfully, and look to continue their form. Expect another big game from GK Pablo Sisniega, who had a breakout match last week.
San Jose
The Earthquakes come into the match on a bit of a run of their own. Having gone the last five matches unbeaten, they have scored 13 over that span. However, as good as they have been on the attack as of late, they haven’t exactly been a wall at the back. Their last match was a shootout at home against USL side, Sacramento Republic. Going on the road will be tough enough, but doing so against a juggernaut like LAFC, makes things even tougher.
2019 Open Cup Round of 16 Prediction
On paper, this should really be a blowout. LAFC have had rest, as well as time for the youngsters to continue to find chemistry amongst the team. Tristan Blackmon and Pablo Sisniega will look to have another great time out, putting a stop to San Jose’s momentum. It goes without saying that with Carlos Vela still in the squad, the attack will continue to be near unstoppable. I wouldn’t expect another five goal win, but I wouldn’t be surprised either. LAFC should, and likely will, cruise into the quarterfinals of the 2019 U.S. Open Cup. They will face the winner of tonight’s Portland Timbers v LA Galaxy match.
