Los Angeles FC will look to start their MLS campaign with a bang when they host Seattle Sounders. After defeating the Rave Green 1-0 in their second-round matchup in the previous season, the Black and Gold were eliminated from the playoffs by the Columbus Crew, 2-1, in the MLS Cup final.
Preview (Los Angeles FC vs. Seattle Sounders)
The greatest way to characterize LAFC’s 2023 campaign would be “almost.” Despite the fact that they were not able to win a trophy the previous year, Steve Cherundolo has had great success as their manager, winning 35 games in a row during the regular season the previous two years, qualifying for the MLS Cup final twice, and winning that trophy in 2022. What is most amazing is Cherundolo’s success in spite of his team absorbing pressure and managing games even when they are out of possession for extended periods.
It’s a strategy that can work when you have the kind of attacking talent he has available. This even though they lost some defensive leadership in the off-season from veterans. Los Angeles FC is the third-most goal-scoring team in the Western Conference with 54 goals scored last season. The team has scored over 50 goals in three straight MLS regular seasons. 2023 saw the Black and Gold win three of their ten regular-season games at BMO Field. They lose four of their home games. The Sounders team that we have grown to anticipate emerged from its temporary playoff slumber during the 2023 regular season.
Though Brian Schmetzer’s team finished the previous domestic season in second place in the Western Conference with 53 points, a dozen more than the previous year, they missed the playoffs for the first time in club history in 2022. The Sounders were comparatively healthy a year ago. Their midfield depth eventually saw them through, even though some of their elderly offensive threats were ineffectual.
Team News
In the off-season, LA acquired the young sensation David Martinez from Venezuela, signed former player Hugo Lloris back after a nearly year-long absence, brought in Omar Campos from Liga MX, and loaned out Eduard Atuesta from Palmeiras. The following players have left: Giorgio Chiellini retired to become a player development coach for this team. Maxime Crepeau is currently in Portland with the Timbers. Kellyn Acosta joined the Chicago Fire, and Diego Palacios is heading to Corinthians. Denis Bouanga, who scored the lone goal in their victory over Seattle in the Western Conference semifinals last year. It is back after taking home the MLS Golden Boot with 20 goals in the 2023 regular season.
Nathan has been sidelined since earlier this month owing to a cruciate ligament injury. The Sounders may also be without Jackson Ragen and Dylan Teves because of knee and muscular problems, respectively. Danny Musovski, who spent three seasons playing for LAFC, was added by Seattle, while Pedro de la Vega, who cost one of the biggest transfer fees in club history, was signed by Argentina. Legendary member of the team Nicolas Lodeiro joined Orlando City during the off-season, and after the 2023 season ended, the Sounders dismissed Heber.
Los Angeles FC 1-0 Seattle Sounders
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