The 2013 season is finally here for the LA Galaxy so as you get through your gameday routine before the LA Galaxy take on the Chicago Fire at 2 p.m. PT at The Home Depot Center, check out the following links and matchups to watch below.
MATCHUPS TO WATCH:
OMAR GONZALEZ vs. SHERJILL MACDONALD
A true battle of heavyweights as the burly Omar Gonzalez takes on Sherjill MacDonald, a bruising yet streaky forward for the Fire. MacDonald tends to use his size to earn space behind defenses, but expect him to endure a great deal of physical punishment from Gonzalez, which could limit his effectiveness.
ROBBIE KEANE vs. ARNE FRIEDRICH
On the other end of the field, Robbie Keane will be tasked with leading LA's attack against a feisty Chicago defense that is led by cerebral centerback Arne Friedrich. The feisty German veteran and his counterpart Austin Berry will have their hands full with Keane who will look to get behind the pair early and often.
JUNINHO/MARCELO SARVAS vs. JEFF LARENTOWICZ/JOEL LINDPERE
Both midfields will be lead by two-way threats who are as comfortable in defense as they are in attack, so positioning will be key. Expect both teams to attempt to pressure their counterparts and force turnovers that could lead to dangerous attacking situations.
LINKS:
Bruce Arena admits that the Galaxy are ready for the real games to start.
Robbie Keane will begin his era as Galaxy captain. During an interview earlier in the week, Keane gives an insight into his leadership style.
Could Leonardo get the nod alongside Omar Gonzalez in central defense? If so, the Brazilian believes that he can do the job.
Mike Magee missed out on the first two days of practice this week, but the Galaxy attacker says that he is ready to play.
Read LAGalaxy.com writer Larry Morgan's preview to the match and remember LA will receive their championship rings prior to the game.
Lastly, check out my Three Points to the game.
PREDICTED LINEUP:
Cudicini; DeLaGarza, Leonardo, Gonzalez, Dunivant; Franklin, Sarvas, Juninho, Clark; Magee, Keane
