The upcoming Major League Soccer clash between LA Galaxy and New York City FC is set to be a thrilling encounter at the Dignity Health Sports Park.
Here's a detailed preview including predictions, team news, and form analysis.
Current Form
LA Galaxy
LA Galaxy has been in solid form, having won three of their last four regular-season matches.
Their only recent loss came against Chicago Fire, marking their first domestic defeat since May.
Impressively, LA Galaxy has maintained an unbeaten record at home this season, securing 31 points from 18 matches, and standing third in the Western Conference.
New York City FC
NYCFC, on the other hand, saw their five-match winning streak come to an end with a narrow 3-2 loss to Columbus Crew.
They currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference. Despite this setback, they have shown resilience on the road, earning points in their last four away matches.
Team News
LA Galaxy
The team will be missing star playmaker Riqui Puig due to a groin injury, and Gaston Brugman is out with a knee injury.
Recent roster changes include Daniel Aguirre’s transfer to Chivas and Markus Ferkranus signing with Brisbane Road.
Key players like Dejan Joveljic, Gabriel Pec, Joseph Paintsil, and Miguel Berry have been instrumental in their recent successes.
New York City FC
NYCFC will be without Rio Hope-Gund (leg injury), Thiago Martins (leg tightness), and Kevin O'Toole (knock).
Additionally, Mitja Ilenic is suspended following a red card, and Tayvon Gray is away with the Jamaican national team. Santiago Rodriguez, who has been a consistent performer, will be a key player to watch.
Predicted Lineups
LA Galaxy
Goalkeeper: McCarthy
Defenders: Yamane, Neal, Yoshida, Aude
Midfielders: Cerrillo, Delgado, Pec, Fagundez, Paintsil
Forward: Joveljic
New York City FC
Goalkeeper: Freese
Defenders: Tanasijevic, Risa, Haak, McFarlane
Midfielders: Sands, Parks, Wolf, Rodriguez, Fernandez
Forward: Martinez
Prediction
Given LA Galaxy’s strong home record and NYCFC’s defensive absences, LA Galaxy is favoured to win this match.
With their attacking depth, even without key players like Puig, they are likely to capitalise on NYCFC’s shorthanded defence.
Our Prediction: LA Galaxy 3-1 New York City FC
LA Galaxy 
