LA Galaxy and LAFC: A decade-long rivalry in Major League Soccer

What to expect from the 24th installation of 'El Trafico Derby?'

This is surely going to be another close matchup between not only two of the league's best offenses but also the top two teams in the Western Conference. Only Real Salt Lake has a better goal differential out West than both LA teams.

Reus is now a part of the legacy involving the pair of soccer clubs from Los Angeles. Keeper John McCarthy has been a member of both teams, as well. If he can limit LAFC's offense by coming up with big saves while Reus manages to find the same dominance as he did during his debut against Atlanta United, the Los Angeles Galaxy could secure their first win in the series since July 4th... of last year.

A loss for the Los Angeles Galaxy would give LAFC their first ever lead in the all-time series between these MLS powerhouses. In addition, the LA Galaxy's lead over LAFC for first place would go from four points to just one as LAFC has more games left this season to play than the Galaxy do.

A win gives the LA Galaxy a seven-point lead over LAFC and control of their own destiny to lock up the overall top seed in the Western Conference. To have any confidence that they could beat LAFC should they meet again in the postseason, the LA Galaxy have to find a way to win. A tie will not cut it with championship ambitions stronger than ever this decade.

Prediction: Los Angeles Galaxy 3, LAFC 2.