LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps: Preview, prediction, lineup & how to watch on TV

Following their dramatic comeback win against LAFC, the LA Galaxy faced a tough 4-2 defeat against the Portland Timbers. This loss marked their seventh of the season after a Wednesday night game where they couldn't secure a win.

The Galaxy were behind from the start, with Jonathan Rodriguez scoring for the Timbers in the 17th minute, followed by Evander in the 39th minute. Gabriel Pec’s stoppage-time goal before halftime narrowed the deficit to one goal, giving the Galaxy a glimmer of hope.

However, Evander struck again early in the second half, his 14th goal of the season, as the Galaxy’s confidence in a comeback seemed to wane. Despite Joseph Paintsil’s goal for the Galaxy, the Timbers restored their two-goal lead with Felipe More’s 14th goal of the year, sealing the win for Portland.

Without further ado, join us for our LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps preview, featuring key information such as team news, predicted lineups, and how to watch LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps on TV.

LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps: Preview, prediction, lineup & how to watch on TV

What time does LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps kick-off?

LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps kicks off on Saturday 21 September at 19:30 PT, 22:30 ET.

• When is the kick-off? Wednesday 18 September, 2024
• What time is kick-off? 19:30 PT, 22:30 ET.
• Where is it played? Dignity Health Sports Park, Los Angeles.

LA Galaxy news

The LA Galaxy controlled the ball for about 60% of their match against Portland, committing fewer fouls and receiving fewer yellow cards. They also earned more corner kicks and recorded more saves, with more shot attempts than the Timbers. Unfortunately for Pec, Paintsil, and the rest of the team, the soccer gods were not on their side.

This loss brings their record to 16-7-7 with just four games remaining. The Galaxy goalkeeper conceded four goals, the most he’s allowed in a single game this season. Despite the setback, the Galaxy remain in first place in the Western Conference. Both teams will face off again on Saturday, with LAFC traveling to Texas and the Galaxy returning to Dignity Health Sports Park, where they are unbeaten this season.

Predicted LA Galaxy lineup vs Vancouver Whitecaps: McCarthy; Yamane, Neal, Yoshida, Nelson; Delgado; Reus, Puig; Pec, Joveljic, Paintsil.

Vancouver Whitecaps news

On the road, the Whitecaps drew their last match against the Houston Dynamo 1-1, with goals from White and the rivals of Ponce. However, in their stadium, they won their last game against a well-known opponent of the LA Galaxy, the San Jose Earthquakes. In that match, Vancouver triumphed 2-0 with goals from Picault and Armstrong. The Whitecaps are currently in sixth place in the Western Conference with 46 points, nine points behind the Galaxy.

Predicted Vancouver Whitecaps lineup vs LA Galaxy: Takaoka; Utvik, Veselinovic, Blackmon; Ahmed, Vite, Priso, Schopf, Adekugbe; Picault, Gauld.

Is LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps on TV?

In the USA, LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps will be televised via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV.

LA Galaxy vs Vancouver Whitecaps score prediction

The Galaxy needs to get back to their winning ways if they want to maintain their lead at the top of the Western Conference. We expect Vanney to opt for a very offensive and aggressive lineup, so we believe the Galaxy will secure a commanding victory.

Score prediction: LA Galaxy 3-1 Vancouver Whitecaps.