LAFC will aim to get back into the win column when they take on the Vancouver Whitecaps in Major League Soccer action this weekend.
The consistent start to the 2024 season continued for the Western Conference club. After their first game of the campaign – a 2-1 win over the struggling Seattle Sounders – LAFC have struggled to win back-to-back games.
In the Black and Gold's last six matches, they have managed to lose, win, draw twice, win and lose again. It's fair to say that LAFC have been the definition of inconsistent to start the MLS season.
However, head coach Steve Cherundolo has stuck to his favored 4-3-3 formation that helped him lift the 2022 Supporters' Shield and the MLS Cup and has opted for the same formation throughout the season. The only real change the former USMNT player has made is replacing Aaron Long with new signing Maxime Chanot, who was part of the team's recent 3-1 loss to local rivals San Jose Earthquakes.
Here's how the Black and Gold could match up against the Whitecaps.
GK: Hugo Lloris – The World Cup-winning goalkeeper kept just two clean sheets behind LAFC's mediocre but rewarding defence.
RB: Ryan Hollingshead – He is ready to return to his usual position at right back after filling in on the other side of the back.
CB: Jesus Murillo – Murillo strengthens the center of defense again for the Black and Gold.
CB: Maxime Chanot – The Luxembourg international made his fourth start for the club ahead of Long in succession.
LB: Omar Campos – Campos gets a chance to prove his worth with his debut on March 16.
CM: Tim Tillman – The 25-year-old has enjoyed a solid season and has been one of LAFC's best players so far.
CM: Ilie Sanchez – He leads the midfield in battle and remains one of the team's most consistent players.
CM: Eduard Atuesta – Back in his second season at the club, Atuesta became one of LAFC's few players who were replaced almost every week.
RW: Cristian Olivera – Olivera hopes to build on his goal against San Jose to help secure his place in the XI.
ST: Mateusz Bogusz – Cherundolo could opt for Tomas Angel or Kei Kamara up front but at the moment they don't have the same chemistry with Bouanga and Oliver as Bogusz does.
LW: Denis Bouanga – The Gabon player is determined to win a second Golden Boot in a row but faces tough competition to retain his title.
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