Through five matches to start 2019, LAFC has passed nearly every test with flying colors.
Regular-season Western Conference winners to start the season? Thrilling 2-1 win in the dying seconds for LAFC. Last year's MLS Cup finalists? A 4-1 performance in the second match of the season. After a difficult trip to NYC, in which the team managed two comebacks to take a point, LAFC left it late once more against the team that knocked them out of the playoffs last season, before following up with the largest margin of victory in Club history a week later in San Jose.
And yet, as the team sits atop the West and unbeaten in five matches, the biggest test is yet to come.
Here's a look at the top the table clash between LAFC and D.C. United on Saturday:
Where To Watch
LAFC at D.C. United, April 6 at 12 pm PT
TV: FOX, FOX Deportes
Radio: ESPNLA 710, KFWB 980
Official LAFC Watch Parties:Joxer's Daly in Culver City, El Tejano in North Hollywood
Opponent Form
Ben Olsen's team is undefeated in four matches this season, including consecutive wins against Real Salt Lake and Orlando City. The only blip on United's ledger thus far this season came at Yankee Stadium - coincidentally the site of LAFC's lone draw this season - where they played to a 0-0 draw with NYCFC.
What The Team Is Saying
Mark-Anthony Kaye on facing D.C. United as they sit atop the East: "It's going to be a nice game because we're both at the high points of our seasons. It's going to be exciting and everyone is up for the challenge. You always want to test yourself against another team that is doing well."
Bob Bradley on how LAFC has to approach the match: "We have to be good with the ball. That's going to be important in terms of moving them around. It also limits their attacking players."
LAFC Projected Starting XI
(4-3-3): Tyler Miller; Jordan Harvey, Eddie Segura, Walker Zimmerman, Steven Beitashour; Eduard Atuesta, Mark-Anthony Kaye, Latif Blessing; Diego Rossi, Adama Diomande, Carlos Vela.
What To Watch For
Star Power: Carlos Vela and Wayne Rooney are MVP frontrunners through the first month of the MLS season - and rightfully so. Each has a hat trick this year and is near the top of almost every offensive category. They're also the leaders of their respective teams. When they play well, their side usually follows. With both in such good form, all eyes will be on who outperforms the other in this one.
Top Of The Table Clash: While considerable attention will be placed on the stars in this match, from top to bottom both these teams have strong squads. I loathe calling any of these other players part of a "supporting cast" because on any given day LAFC and D.C. United have a handful of match-winners on the pitch. There should be little interesting battles all over the pitch on Saturday. You get the feeling whichever team gets the upper hand in the majority of the smaller battles will walk away with the three points.
Controlling The Match: Controlling matches has been a reoccurring theme this season for LAFC. Bob Bradley has stressed the need to be smart with the ball to manage matches and keep games on LAFC's terms. D.C. United are at their best when they are able to get their front four running at disorganized defenses. The best way to stop that is by using the ball in ways that limit United's transition opportunities. That means recognizing advantages quickly and knowing other situations when its best to simply hold the ball to keep D.C. at bay.
