MLS
Marco Reus and Olivier Giroud set for El Tráfico baptism of fire in LA
LAFC and LA Galaxy lock horns at Dignity Health Sports Park on Saturday night with the Galaxy table toppers in the Western Conference.
With the September FIFA international window a thing of the past, the focus returns to domestic MLS activity where another edition (the 24th in total) of El Tráfico takes centre stage as the regular season reaches its climax with both LAFC and LA Galaxy fighting for domination at the summit of the Western Conference.
LA Galaxy hold the upper hand currently and lead West with 52 points from 28 games played; 15 wins, seven draws and only six losses, but will have their sights set on going deep in the post season with the boost to the squad following their recent signing of the legendary German Marco Reus. The former Borussia Dortmund moved to MLS during the summer inspired by the likes of Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba who have all paved the way for moves Stateside.
LAFC too were active in bringing in big international names with World Cup winners with France, Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud joining the Black & Gold and in the next few days, the club are expected to announced the return of Mexican striker, Carlos Vela who is tipped for a return to the club where he won MLS Cup in 2022.
All eyes on Reus and Giroud
Dignity Health Sports Park, home of the Galaxy, will be the setting for September edition of El Tráfico, where a win for Steve Cherundolo’s men would see LAFC close the gap at the top of the table to just one point with the game additionally enhanced with the clash set to see both Marco Reus and Olivier Giroud make their LA derby debuts
Giroud has failed to score in either of his two MLS appearances for LAFC this season, but did score in the Leagues Cup final, where they lost to Columbus Crew. Reus, meanwhile, contributed a goal and an assist in his debut game against Atlanta United.
