Los Angeles FC vs Real Salt Lake Predictions, Betting Tips and Match Previews. Los Angeles FC and Real Salt Lake aim to bounce back from heavy defeats in Wednesday’s MLS clash at BMO Stadium. Read on for our free predictions and tips.
Major League Soccer | Jul 18, 2024 at 3.45am UK at Banc of California Stadium
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Los Angeles FC vs Real Salt Lake Predictions
Can LAFC Reassert Their Dominance Against a Resilient Real Salt Lake?
Key Stats
– LAFC have collected 29 points from their 12 home matches, making them the best home team in MLS.
– Real Salt Lake have conceded at least two goals in four of their last five matches.
– Denis Bouanga has scored 14 goals this season, making him LAFC’s leading scorer.
Los Angeles FC (LAFC) and Real Salt Lake are set to clash at BMO Stadium in a crucial MLS encounter, with both sides eager to recover from recent heavy defeats. This match promises to be a fascinating battle as both teams have accumulated 43 points this season, with LAFC leading the Western Conference due to their superior number of victories.
Team Analysis
Los Angeles FC’s Form and Key Players
LAFC were enjoying a remarkable run with 12 victories in their last 13 competitive fixtures, punctuated by a draw. This streak was abruptly halted by a 5-1 defeat at home to Columbus Crew, where Steve Cherundolo’s men ended the game with just nine players on the pitch. Despite this setback, LAFC remain top of the Western Conference with 13 wins, four draws, and five losses from their 22 matches.
Their home form has been exceptional, boasting 29 points from 12 matches, making them the best home team in MLS. This confidence is further bolstered by their historical performance against Real Salt Lake at home, having won six out of eight encounters.
Key players for LAFC include Denis Bouanga, who leads the team with 14 goals, and Mateusz Bogusz, who has been pivotal in midfield with 12 goals. The return of Timothy Tillman from suspension will strengthen their midfield trio alongside Ilie Sanchez and Eduard Atuesta.
Real Salt Lake’s Form and Key Players
Real Salt Lake also suffered a significant defeat, losing 3-0 to Portland Timbers in their last match. Despite this, Pablo Mastroeni’s side has shown resilience, winning three of their last five matches. However, their defensive frailties have been exposed, conceding at least two goals in four of their last five outings.
Their away form has been inconsistent, with just one win in their last six away games. Nevertheless, they remain one of the better-performing teams on the road, accumulating 18 points from 12 matches, only bettered by Los Angeles Galaxy and Vancouver Whitecaps.
Cristian Arango is the standout performer for Real Salt Lake, having netted 17 goals this season. Anderson Julio, who will likely replace the suspended captain, is also a key figure, contributing six goals.
Expected Lineups
Los Angeles FC: Lloris; Hollingshead, Long, Chanot, Campos; Tillman, Sanchez, Atuesta; Bogusz, Bouanga, Kamara
Real Salt Lake: MacMath; Brody, Hidalgo, Ramirez, Katranis; Eneli, Ojeda; Gomez, Crooks, Luna; Julio
Game Dynamics and Key Battles
The match could be decided in the midfield, where LAFC’s trio of Tillman, Sanchez, and Atuesta will likely dominate possession and dictate the tempo. Real Salt Lake’s midfield, led by Braian Ojeda and Matt Crooks, will need to be robust and vigilant to counteract LAFC’s creativity and fluidity.
A crucial duel will be between LAFC’s forward Denis Bouanga and Real Salt Lake’s defensive line. Bouanga, known for his pace and finishing, will aim to exploit any defensive lapses. On the other hand, Cristian Arango’s battle against LAFC’s defence, particularly against Aaron Long and Maxime Chanot, will be pivotal. Arango’s ability to find space and convert chances could be decisive.
Gameplay Strategy
Given LAFC’s strong home form, they are likely to adopt an aggressive approach, pressing high and looking to control the game from the start. Their strategy will revolve around quick transitions and exploiting the flanks with the pace of Bouanga and Bogusz.
Real Salt Lake, aware of LAFC’s attacking prowess, might adopt a more conservative approach, focusing on defensive solidity and counter-attacking opportunities. They will need to stay compact and look for moments to break forward quickly, utilising the speed of Anderson Julio and the finishing ability of Arango.
Improvements and Criticisms
LAFC’s Tactical Approach
While LAFC have been impressive, their defensive discipline needs improvement. The recent red cards and the heavy defeat to Columbus Crew highlight a lack of composure under pressure. Steve Cherundolo must address these lapses and ensure his team remains focused throughout the game.
Real Salt Lake’s Inconsistencies
Real Salt Lake’s defensive fragility on the road is a significant concern. Pablo Mastroeni must instil greater resilience and tactical awareness in his backline. Their approach often leaves them exposed, and without a solid defensive foundation, their away form will continue to suffer.
Managerial Analysis
Steve Cherundolo (LAFC)
Cherundolo has been successful in instilling a winning mentality, but his handling of disciplinary issues raises questions. The frequent red cards suggest a lack of control and discipline within the squad. This needs urgent addressing to maintain their title challenge.
Pablo Mastroeni (Real Salt Lake)
Mastroeni has managed to extract good performances from his team, but their inconsistency, especially away from home, is problematic. His tactical flexibility is commendable, but he needs to find a balance between attack and defence to make Real Salt Lake more formidable on the road.
Betting Predictions
Best Bet: LAFC to Win and Both Teams to Score
LAFC’s formidable home record coupled with Real Salt Lake’s defensive vulnerabilities suggests a home victory is likely. However, given that LAFC have conceded in several of their recent matches, backing both teams to score adds value to this prediction.
Correct Score Prediction: LAFC 3-1 Real Salt Lake
Considering the attacking talent on display and Real Salt Lake’s recent defensive record, a 3-1 victory for LAFC seems plausible. This aligns with the expectation of a high-scoring affair where LAFC leverage their home advantage.
Goalscorer Prediction: Denis Bouanga to Score Anytime
Denis Bouanga, as LAFC’s leading scorer, is a strong candidate to find the net. His form and importance to the team’s attack make him a likely goalscorer in this fixture.
Team to Score First: LAFC
Given their home dominance and the need to bounce back, LAFC are expected to start aggressively, making them the favourites to open the scoring.
Innovative Market: Total Team Shots on Target – LAFC Over 6.5
With LAFC averaging 6.5 shots on target per game, and their need to assert dominance early, betting on them to exceed this number seems a promising market. Their attacking setup and the return of key players further justify this prediction.
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