For the third match in a row, LAFC welcome a Western Conference foe to Banc of California Stadium.
Darwin Quintero and Minnesota United will take to the pitch against LAFC in the midweek matchup. With the Loons just four points behind the Black & Gold, and a clash with Eastern Conference standouts NYCFC lurking just a few days later, it’s imperative the Club maintains its unbeaten run at home on Wednesday.
Here are the Toyota Keys to Match for LAFC vs. Minnesota United:
Focus On The Task At Hand
The questions have already been coming after training. How will LAFC match up against Patrick Vieira’s NYCFC side when they visit Banc of California Stadium on Sunday?
So far, Bob Bradley and his side aren’t taking the bait. After training on Tuesday, defender Walker Zimmerman said the squad is only focused on Minnesota and securing all three points. Moments later, his coach echoed the sentiment.
Let the press focus on a possible NYC-LA rivalry. LAFC have to make sure they are fully committed to the team in front of them Wednesday night. With quality players like Quintero and Miguel Ibarra on the pitch, not focusing on the Loons could cost LAFC dearly against a fellow Western Conference side.
Finish Your Chances
A key that is an extension of LAFC’s previous match with FC Dallas. The Black & Gold squandered a bevy of chances to kill off the match with FC Dallas on Saturday. The result was two points dropped.
Minnesota comes into Banc of California Stadium with just one win in their last seven away matches. But the draw against Dallas proved that if you leave the door open, teams will take advantage. LAFC needs to cash in on its chances and maximize its superiority at home.
Don't Give Quintero Space
He’s quick, hard to get off the ball, and he makes things happen. It’s no secret Quintero is the Loons’ talisman.
The Colombian international puts opposing defenses under pressure with his direct style. The key to dealing with him? Keeping numbers near him and usher the forward into areas on the pitch where he can’t hurt you. If he gets in behind, good luck catching him.
Force Quintero onto his weaker left foot or going away from goal, and LAFC will go a long ways to keeping him quiet on the night.
