CARSON, Calif. -- The LA Galaxy take on the Portland Timbers on Sunday in a tantalizing Western Conference clash.
The match between the last two MLS Cup champions will air at 6:30 p.m. PT on Fox Sports 1.
Ahead of Sunday's game, check out a few links, matchups to watch and an important quote before the clash.
LINKS
Giovani dos Santos is expected to return to the fold for the LA Galaxy on Sunday, but Steven Gerrard (left calf injury) remains unlikely to feature.
Fans will be able to take a photo with the Copa America trophy starting at 5 p.m. PT at Soccer Fest.
In the latest edition of By the Numbers, we look at the Galaxy's consistent ability to score on the Timbers.
Remember a capacity crowd is expected, so fans are encouraged to arrive early.
*LAGalaxy.com's Larry Morgan provides a preview of tonight's match.
MATCHUPS TO WATCH:
FANENDO ADI vs. JELLE VAN DAMME
Adi has terrorized the Galaxy with four goals against the club in just five games against Los Angeles. Bruce Arena's physical Belgian defender will have a tough task on his hand stopping Adi, who will look to drift behind the Galaxy back four and rifle off chances on frame.
GIOVANI DOS SANTOS vs. NAT BORCHERS
Dos Santos has been in full training for nearly two weeks and is likely to return to the starting lineup when the Galaxy face the Timbers. For his first action since early March, he'll have to take on talented Portland defender Nat Borchers, who will look to shut down the Galaxy's talented Mexican striker.
DIEGO VALERI vs. NIGEL DE JONG
Nigel de Jong's battle with Diego Valeri promises to be one of the most tantalizing matchups of the match. Expect Portland's Argentine playmaker to use try to link up with the rest of the Timbers midfield to bypass the Dutchman, while De Jong is likely to use his mix of positioning skill and brawn to silence Valeri.
WHAT THEY SAID:
"No. The game’s over."
- Bruce Arena on whether last October's 5-2 defeat to the Portland Timbers at StubHub Center still stings.
