CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy’s bid for a third U.S. Open Cup title begins on Wednesday when they host FC Golden State Force.
The PDL squad from Whittier is one of the top amateur sides remaining in the tournament with upset victories over USL sides Orange County FC and Las Vegas Lights FC. Leading the way for the amateur squad is Brazilian striker Allisson Faramilio who has tallied four goals in three games.
Click here to buy tickets
For LA Galaxy boss Sigi Schmid, a four-time winner of the Open Cup, the match requires the right demeanor –both mentally and physically—from his squad.
“This is their moment in the sun and they’re going to play their best game. Anything can happen,” Schmid said. “It doesn’t matter who you play in every game you play, the opponent is going to have some chances. … I don’t care who you play, they’re going to have a time where they get a chance or two.
“It’s a matter of taking each game seriously. Not viewing it as a rest day. It’s not a rest day. For the guys stepping on the field, it’s a workday. They have to be prepared to work and outwork FC Golden State. We know when you play a team like that they’re going to give you everything they have. They might not be able to move the next day, but they’re going to give you everything they have.”
Schmid expects to make several changes to his squad for Wednesday’s contest, with many of the team’s younger charges expected to participate. The game could also signal the return of Bradford Jamieson IV who has yet to make a first-team appearance this season due to injury.
Regardless of who takes the field, Schmid is demanding a professional performance from his team.
“You’ve got to be mentally prepared. Often when you play this game, you make a few lineup changes, so there should be a lot of motivated people on the field because they realize that getting game time could lead to more. It’s an opportunity for people to step up and realize that it’s a chance for them to shine.”
