Three matches. Two wins and a draw. LAFC have opened Banc of California Stadium on a three-match unbeaten run, but on Sunday the Club faces it stiffest test to date.
It's an East versus West showdown, as New York City FC is in town. Here's what you need to know:
Where To Watch/Listen
LAFC vs NYCFC, May 13 at 5:30p PT
TV: FS1, FOX Deportes
Radio: ESPNLA 710, KFWB 980
Opponent Form
A perfect four wins out of four at home, life on the road has been mixed for NYCFC. Two wins, two draws and two losses on the road, the Cityzens still sit just two points adrift of Eastern Conference leaders Atlanta United. NYCFC will be looking to erase the memory of a resounding 4-0 loss to rivals NY Red Bulls a week ago.
What The Players Are Saying
Mark-Anthony Kaye on the the challenge NYCFC presents: "New York will bring a different challenge. Their midfield is very good. Obviously, they have David Villa. But I think we've been working a lot to work on our game and continue to create the identity that Bob has introduced since preseason. It's a great test going forward, and if we can get a result here, then we know we are still on the right path."
LAFC Projected Starting XI
(4-3-3): Tyler Miller; Jordan Harvery, Laurent Ciman, Walker Zimmerman, Steven Beitashour; Eduard Atuesta, Mark-Anthony Kaye, Benny Feilhaber; Diego Rossi, Carlos Vela, Latif Blessing.
What To Watch For
Keeping Ahold Of The Ball: Both coaches preach the need to control a match. And that means holding onto the ball and a possession-oriented style. At home LAFC have out-possessed teams 51-49, 64-36, and 58-42. Patrick Vieira's side will look to get on the ball likely more than any team that's visited Banc of California Stadium to date. So expect to see a lot of play on the ground from both sides. This match will likely come down to which side turns the ball over the least and in the least dangerous areas.
Three Matches In Nine Days: Sunday marks the third match in just nine days for LAFC. Bob Bradley's side have had the luxury of not traveling over that stretch, after starting the season with six matches on the road, but these matches can still take a toll. While NYCFC hasn't played in over a week. It's early in the season, but this will be a test of LAFC's fitness without a doubt.
Villa vs Vela: The last time these two faced each other, both were playing for clubs in Spain. David Villa and Carlos Vela are two of the most technically gifted and exciting players in MLS. Every time Villa or Vela is on the ball, you just know something incredible might happen.
