San diego fc vs los angeles fc match preview
San Diego FC will be playing at home once again, this time against LAFC. This matchup is bound to become a huge rivalry in MLS, as both teams share a similar history in how they became expansion clubs. Notably, SDFC CEO Tom Penn was also the first CEO in LAFC’s history.
San Diego is coming off their first-ever loss against Austin FC—a match in which they were missing key players such as Aníbal Godoy and Paddy McNair.
Now, with those players back, San Diego also has Hirving Lozano available on the bench as he returns from a hamstring injury. If Lozano gets playing time, it will likely be limited. I anticipate him coming on around the 60th or 70th minute.
This is shaping up to be an exciting matchup with plenty of back-and-forth action. I predict a 2-2 draw, making it three straight home games in which San Diego FC fails to secure a win. However, the positives will be that Lozano is finally back on the field, the team remains undefeated at home, and they can hold their own against top MLS teams.
Anders Dreyer needs to step up in this match. For San Diego FC to be successful, their best player must be more clinical in front of goal. Dreyer had several chances against Austin FC but failed to convert. His finishing will be a key factor against LAFC.
This match has all the ingredients to be one of the weekend’s standout games in MLS. Everyone loves a San Diego vs. Los Angeles rivalry, and LAFC fans will certainly make their presence known on Saturday night. One lingering question, especially if LAFC dominates, is whether fans will resort to the infamous chant in moments of frustration.
Another interesting aspect will be the attendance. The Padres play the same day at 4:15 PM, while SDFC kicks off at 7:30 PM. It will be intriguing to see if this scheduling conflict impacts the crowd size.
Predicted Starting XI
defense
CJ Dos Santos
Dos Santos remains the No. 1 goalkeeper, and despite last week’s 2-1 loss, he delivered an outstanding performance. He gets the start.
Willy Kumado
Kumado has earned the starting spot over Jasper Löffelsend, and rightfully so. His presence in the attack is impressive, and his precise crosses create plenty of chances.
Chris McVey
McVey continues as a starter in the absence of Andrés Reyes. He has proven to be a leader, though he performs better alongside McNair.
Paddy McNair
The heart of San Diego’s backline returns from international duty with Northern Ireland, which will make a huge difference. McNair’s experience was noticeably missed last week.
Luca Bombino
For reasons I can’t quite wrap my head around, Mikey Varas really likes Bombino. Despite being only 18 years old, he has earned Varas' trust and will remain in the starting lineup.
Midfield
Jeppe Tverskov
Captain Jeppe is a must-start, and I see him scoring in this match. He came close to scoring last weekend, so I think he’ll find the net off a set piece.
Aníbal Godoy
Godoy returns from international duty with Panama, where they fell short in the Nations League final against Mexico. His absence was felt in the midfield, and I’m sure Varas is thrilled to have his veteran midfielder back in the lineup.
Luca de la Torre
De la Torre finally scored his first goal for the club last week, and he remains untouchable in the midfield. His ability to control the game is impressive, and he is every bit the elite player Mikey Varas claims him to be.
Attack
Anders Dreyer
Dreyer is another must-start. He needs to step up and make his presence known by scoring at home.
Tomás Ángel
Ángel will start as the striker on Saturday. He didn’t have his best performance against Austin, but he remains the best option. The only alternative is Anisse Saidi, the 16-year-old rising star.
Onni Valakari
Valakari has been one of San Diego’s most impactful players this season. Over the past three weeks, he has recorded two assists and a goal. For now, he’s a must-start.