Los Angeles Galaxy vs Los Angeles FC Prediction & Betting Tips - Major League Soccer

Prediction published on 23/02/2023, 18:00  by Sridhar | Modified on 26/02/2023 at 16:07 in Major League Soccer Predictions

The new season of MLS returns with Saturday’s Los Angeles Derby or El Tráfico between LA Galaxy and Los Angeles FC at Rose Bowl set to be the highlight. This match will also mark a new chapter in the history of MLS as it will be the first Los Angeles derby to be shown on Apple TV. Los Angeles Galaxy are looking to start their search for a sixth MLS Cup on a high, although their last domestic title win came in 2014. They qualified for the play-offs last season but were defeated in the Western Conference semi-final by Los Angeles FC. While the thoughts of a win avenging that defeat come to mind, Galaxy haven’t been assuring in their preparations for the season. They won two of their six friendlies this season, losing three and drawing one. One big worry for the home team is the absence of Javier Hernandez ‘Chicharito’ with an injury while defender Julian Araujo has joined Barcelona.

The reigning MLS champions LAFC will look to start their season with a win, that too against derby rivals, but it’s not all rosy for them. Gareth Bale’s retirement has left a void upfront although Carlo Vela continues to be their main threat. Veteran defender Giorgio Chiellini will once again shore up the back four, while new signing Timothy Tillman could start in the midfield. They have wrapped their preparations with consecutive wins in friendlies and also have won each of their last five MLS season openers.