CARSON, Calif. -- Giovani dos Santos walked off the CenturyLink Field pitch in Seattle last October with his head down after the LA Galaxy’s 2015 ended in a Knockout Round Game. Now with the Galaxy preparing for another do-or-die match, he’s determined not to experience that feeling again.
Unlike a year ago, the Galaxy will open the postseason at StubHub Center when they host Real Salt Lake in the 2016 Knockout Round. After the Dos Santos and the Galaxy were eliminated in 2015 by Seattle Sounders FC on the road, the Mexican star believes the home field advantage will be vital for the Galaxy.
“For us, it’s very important to play the knockout round game at home. We’re confident about Wednesday,” Dos Santos said. “Last year, we lost on the road in Seattle, this year, we’re prepared, and hopefully, we can get the title.’
Dos Santos heads into the series after one of the finest seasons of his professional career. The 27-year-old Mexican international notched 14 goals and 12 assists for the Galaxy en route to being named 2016 Galaxy Player of the Year.
With Robbie Keane and Steven Gerrard still injury doubts, Dos Santos believes that he’s ready to step up and carry the Galaxy past Salt Lake.
“I feel fitter than ever. It gives me confidence because I have the confidence of the coach. I feel really ready,” Dos Santos said. “Everyone is a leader in our team. Our responsibility on the pitch is to create chances not to score goals. I’m older now; I’m 27, so of course, I’m more confident. [Bruce Arena's] confidence is important for me as is the confidence of the players, so I feel great. “
