LA Galaxy predicted starting XI vs Colorado Rapids
By Manuel Meza
The LA Galaxy will travel to face the Colorado Rapids this Wednesday, October 2nd, at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, in what promises to be an intense MLS regular season match.
With the Galaxy having already secured their playoff spot, the focus now shifts to maintaining momentum and solidifying their position at the top of the Western Conference. After a 4-2 victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps, the team is eager to continue its winning form.
Despite the slim chances of catching Inter Miami in the Supporters' Shield race, LA Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney is determined to lead his squad to the top of the Western Conference. With just three games left in the regular season, every match counts.
Currently, the Galaxy sit in first place with 17 wins, more than the club has secured in a decade. The last time LA Galaxy achieved 17 victories was in 2014, a season that ended with them lifting their most recent MLS Cup. This year, the team is once again showing the form that makes them a formidable force in Major League Soccer.
LA Galaxy predicted starting XI vs Colorado Rapids
Greg Vanney’s side is expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation, which has been key to their attacking prowess this season. Here’s the predicted lineup for Wednesday’s clash against the Colorado Rapids:
Goalkeeper
John McCarthy: McCarthy has been a consistent presence in goal this season, offering reliability between the posts. He will be looking to keep another clean sheet after conceding twice in the win over Vancouver.
Defense
Miki Yamane (RB), Maya Yoshida (CB), Jalen Neal (CB), John Nelson (LB): Yamane and Nelson will likely start as full-backs, providing width and defensive stability on the flanks. Neal and Yoshida, a strong center-back pairing, will aim to neutralize any threats posed by Colorado’s attack.
Midfield
Marco Reus, Mark Delgado, Riqui Puig: In midfield, veteran Marco Reus will take on a deeper role, helping to dictate the tempo and offering defensive cover.
Mark Delgado’s work rate and ability to disrupt the opposition’s play will complement Riqui Puig, who continues to be the creative spark, driving the team forward with his playmaking abilities.
Attack
Gabriel Pec, Dejan Joveljic, Joseph Paintsil: The front three will likely feature Pec and Paintsil on the wings, offering pace and creativity. Joveljic, who has been a standout striker this season, will lead the line, looking to add to his impressive goal tally. His movement and finishing will be crucial in breaking down the Rapids' defense.
The LA Galaxy come into this match riding high on confidence, especially after extending their unbeaten streak at Dignity Health Sports Park.
Their attacking form has been remarkable, scoring four goals in each of their last three matches. However, they will need to adapt to the altitude and difficult conditions of playing in Colorado.
With the playoffs secured, Vanney will still be pushing his players to finish the season on a high, and a win against the Rapids would be another step toward clinching the Western Conference title. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM PT, and fans can expect a Galaxy side eager to continue their dominance in the MLS.