ClapIt’s always fascinating when two teams from within the same city limits go head to head, regardless of whether it happens in the United States, England or anywhere else in the world. This weekend, as reported by Goal.com and CBS Sports, we’re going to see two giants of the MLS game go head to head as LAFC faces LA Galaxy.
While there may be 12 points and two positions separating these sides in the Western Conference, this is still going to be the biggest game of the weekend and potentially even of the season – although Seattle Sounders may disagree with that now that they’ve been able to edge their way into second place.
The power struggle
The MLS Cup play-offs aren’t all too far away, and as we all know, these two sides are almost certainly going to be taking part in them. This game serves as a really interesting measuring stick, so that we can figure out where they’re both at.
According to Galaxy striker Zlatan, of course, he still believes (in true wrestling heel fashion) that he’s the best in the world.
“By far, because if he’s in his prime. How old is he? Twenty-nine,” said the veteran centre-forward. “And he’s playing in MLS and he’s in his prime. When I was 29 [I was in Europe]. Big difference.”
“That [derby] atmosphere keeps me alive, that keeps me on my toes,” he added. “Hopefully it will be a nice atmosphere like that on Friday. I think it will be. It gives you energy, it gives you adrenaline.”
The Swede was talking about Carlos Vela who, as many fans know, is the leading man for LAFC this season as they continue to hold firm as the favourites for the MLS Cup crown.
Regardless of whether or not that little speech comes back to bite Ibrahimovic, it’s great to see that there’s a bit of fire burning for this game. Given how fresh this rivalry is it could be pretty easy to expect a tame atmosphere, but we honestly believe it’s going to be the exact opposite when these sides throw down.
Who you got?
In terms of who the favourite is going to be specifically, it’s pretty hard to pick against LAFC. They just seem to be on such a roll right now, and if they can get themselves going early in the derby, they could wind up easing towards a really convincing win.
There are some other featured games that will be going down over the course of the weekend, but let’s face it, nothing compares to the Battle of Los Angeles. The city is starting to get swept up in the idea of making soccer one of their primary sports, and with less than seven years to go until North America hosts the FIFA World Cup, that can only be a good thing.
All that is left now is for fans to sit back and watch, as two of the MLS’ finest do battle with three points and a lot of pride being at stake.
