What a huge derby weekend in LA. We should be seeing the premiere of Gareth Bale and Chiellini for LAFC. That’s perfect, because LAFC lost the first derby in heartbreaking fashion. Blessing had a game tying goal called off in the 9th minute of stoppage time. Absolutely gutting finish for a road team in a derby. It was a controversial VAR call, but I won’t complain. (I had LA Galaxy money line FYI.) So I expect the new look LAFC team to be out for blood.
I shouldn’t have to sell anyone on Bale’s potential here. The man has plenty of European hardware.The biggest question I have is how much does Bale care. Obviously I have some hate and bias being a Madrid fan. Bale has a reputation of being a bit of an ass and not giving full effort every time he is on the pitch. However, with Wales drawing into the USA’s group in the World Cup this winter. I think this is a perfect opportunity for Bale to do some recon for the national team. Also the man is a free kick wizard, so I’m definitely taking him for a goal. Other LAFC players to watch are Arango and Vela. Vela hasn’t looked great on his finishes recently and has been a much better distributor. I will definitely be looking at his assist number. Arango has been absolutely on fire playing as a starter or a super sub. He has the hot foot and is finding the back of the net at will. I will have my eye on his goal scoring prop as well.
The LA Galaxy have been incredibly frustrating. They just smashed Montreal 4-0 at home. But the game before they put up a pathetic effort in Minnesota. Getting a red card and going down 0-3 in the first half. I will give the Galaxy some credit for not quitting because they managed to score 2 in the second half down a man. However they shouldn't have been in that position in the first place. Chicharito broke out of his goal scoring slump last week with a brace. That man is always dangerous and I look for him to stay hot in the derby. It’s time for the stars to be stars. 22 year old Dejan Joveljic has also been playing quality football. He’s scored 5 goals in his last 4 MLS games. Keep an eye on his numbers as well.
Ultimately, I think this is going to be a high scoring match with LAFC coming out victorious. I love a revenge narrative.