Preview (July 5,2019) — The start of the 2019 season for LAFC was a self-proclaimed revenge tour. From match day one, their mission was to avenge the losses and poor performances suffered in 2018. However, as the season went on, and names got crossed off, mentality shifted from vengeance to winning trophies. This weekend the Black and Gold return home with bad intentions on their mind.
LAFC out for revenge after early season loss to Vancouver
LAFC host the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday night. The Whitecaps handed LAFC their first loss of the season while in Vancouver early this year.
Meanwhile, Vancouver come into the match not having won since late May, with a handful of draws, and their latest result being a loss. Los Angeles are building more momentum, having suffered a second loss of the season merely a week ago. Looking back on the earlier match between these two teams, have some in LA looking forward to this match as a chance to once again, right some wrongs.
"It’s one of those teams that we look back at as a missed opportunity, something we’re looking forward to avenging.” @Chris_Ramirez17 is out for revenge.
🎟️ https://t.co/3xzAHMdz8q pic.twitter.com/2WQAmIIpDM
— LAFC (@LAFC) July 5, 2019
The first time around
The mid-April loss that LAFC suffered the first time these two teams met felt a lot like this weekend’s match. It was a match that featured a slightly rotated LAFC squad, coming off a short turnaround, in the middle of three matches in 10 days. However, unlike before, the chances LAFC take the Whitecaps lightly are slim and none. Now aware of the dangers of underestimating an opponent expect Los Angeles to remain focused.
Midfield at full strength
Mark-Anthony Kaye didn’t just make his return to the team this past week, he also made his return to the starting lineup. With Eduard Atuesta having done such a great job stepping into a more leadership role in the middle, Kaye’s return will come with adjustments. Even in the rout last match, the middle of the field was sloppy at best. There was plenty of missed passes, lost possession and lack of the attacking creativity we are used to seeing. Cleaning up those issues will be key in LAFC continuing their winning ways.
"I believe in everyone on the roster. The work that goes on every day is to try and find a good way to make them all better.”
Bob Bradley is always looking for ways to take #LAFC to the next level.
🎟️ https://t.co/3xzAHMdz8q pic.twitter.com/AwnUnuFGk6
— LAFC (@LAFC) July 5, 2019
Making a name
While you would be forgiven for forgetting, LAFC are still a very young club. Only in their second year of competition, it’s no surprise fans are itching for those players you can one day call legends. Players like Pablo Sisniega, Fito Zelaya and Eddie Segura are all playing like they want that distinction.
Segura has played a big role in the leagues best defense all season. In addition, Sisniega has been otherworldly over the last month, blocking everything in a two mile radius. The newest addition, Fito Zelaya, has proven to be worth the wait. With every minute, he continues to improve and flash his goal scoring ability. With these three in the form they’re in, LAFC haven’t missed a beat during international play.
“We’re at home and we’re a team that wants to keep pushing forward, I think it’s another great opportunity for 3 points.” @MarkThEwizz is ready to #DefendTheBanc against @WhitecapsFC.
🎟️ https://t.co/3xzAHMdz8q pic.twitter.com/YkVVqZGdgE
— LAFC (@LAFC) July 5, 2019
The Prediction
Los Angeles have yet to lose to an opponent twice in a row. The 2019 version of LAFC, has all but perfected the art of the revenge game. Yordy Reyna and Fredy Montero are the attacking threats for Vancouver, so limiting their looks at goal will be key. Having had a rough few matches, eyes will be on the fullbacks for LAFC, ensuring they don’t get caught too far up and exposed on counter attacks.
Playing perfect will give Vancouver the best chance at another upset, though even perfect play can’t stop a motivated LAFC. Another rout looks to be in the cards, as well as three points for the home team. I’m predicting a 4-1 final.
