Los Angeles Galaxy vs. FC Dallas: 10 Bold Predictions

Fresh off a fourth-place finish at the 2013 Guinness International Champions Cup, Bruce Arena’s Los Angeles Galaxy continue their 2013 Major League Soccer campaign against Schellas Hyndman’s FC Dallas at FC Dallas Stadium in Frisco, Tex. on Aug. 11.

Jul 7, 2013; Carson, CA, USA; Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Marcelo Sarvas (8) and FC Dallas forward Blas Prez (7) battle for the ball during the second half at the StubHub Center. The Los Angeles Galaxy defeated the FC Dallas 2-0. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

The Galaxy are in the middle of a massive race in the MLS Western Conference with a record of 10-9-3 (33 points). FC Dallas are not too far behind with a record of 8-6-8 (32 points), and this game will have massive ramifications on the West standings. Kickoff is scheduled for 5 p.m. PT/8 p.m. ET and will be televised by ESPN2.

Here are 10 Bold Predictions for this Sunday’s match between the Los Angeles Galaxy against FC Dallas.

1. Los Angeles will score first

Robbie Keane is the captain for a reason. This season, Keane has seven goals and eight assists to lead the Galaxy. On Sunday, the No. 7 for LA will earn a goal and an assist to spearhead the Galaxy’s hopes.

2. Landon Donovan will also score

Ever since his successful CONCACAF Gold Cup campaign, Landon Donovan has been finding his stride. He will also earn a goal and an assist on Sunday against FC Dallas.

3. The most unlikeliest of goalscorers…Gyasi Zardes

Gyasi Zardes has a big opportunity this weekend to prove his worth as a member of the Galaxy first team. Zardes will score on Sunday against the Hoops.

4. Jaime Penedo breaks through with at least four saves

Goalkeeper Jaime Penedo impressed during his 45 minutes in goal for the Galaxy and would be the logical starter for Sunday. Assuming he does get the start, Penedo makes at least four saves.

5. More clutch skills from Raul Fernandez

Jul 7, 2013; Carson, CA, USA; FC Dallas midfielder Andrew Jacobson (4) moves the ball down the field defended by Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Marcelo Sarvas (8) during the first half at the StubHub Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports

This season, Peruvian netminder Raul Fernandez has 76 saves for FC Dallas and will look to earn more on Sunday. The View predicts at least four saves from Fernandez against LA.

6. Blas Perez delivers for FC Dallas

This season, Blas Perez has six goals to lead FC Dallas. If they are to get back in the hunt, it will be up to Perez to deliver the goods. Perez will score in the second half against the Galaxy.

7. David Ferreira with at least an assist

David Ferreira is Dallas’s top provider with six assists to his credit. Look for Ferreira to earn an assist in the second half against Los Angeles.

8. Marcelo Sarvas on the scoresheet

With four goals and four assists, Marcelo Sarvas has been the unsung hero this year for the Los Angeles Galaxy. With three matches against the world’s best under his belt, Sarvas will earn a goal and an assist on Sunday against the Hoops.

9. At least 25 fouls and three yellows

It’s physical, fast-paced football that is the order of the day in Major League Soccer, and for this match, at least 25 fouls will be whistled and three yellow cards will be issued.

10. Los Angeles takes the series

If the Los Angeles Galaxy get clicking early and often, this match should be a done deal by the break. Bruce Arena’s Galaxy begin the business end of the regular season on the right track.

Los Angeles Galaxy 4, FC Dallas 1