LAFC vs LA Galaxy Odds & Preview: August 22
- The latest edition of the ‘El Trafico’ Los Angeles derby kicks off at 6:00 pm on Saturday at LAFC’s Banc of California Stadium
- The hosts are firm -250 favorites against the Galaxy (+525), who are coming off a disappointing performance at the MLS is Back Tournament
- Get a breakdown of both clubs, Saturday’s odds and a few value picks below
While it won’t be the festive El Trafico we rapidly came to know and love over the past two seasons, Saturday’s clash between two clubs that represent Major League Soccer’s past (Galaxy) and present (LAFC) promises to be an entertaining one.
Bob Bradley’s LAFC (2-0-3) had a respectable run to the quarterfinal stage at MLS is Back before being bounced on penalties by Orlando; led by star Uruguayan frontman Diego Rossi’s eight goals in seven matches, LAFC play attractive soccer and have a tendency to throw caution to the wind.
LAFC vs LA Galaxy Odds
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total at DraftKings |
|---|---|---|---|
| LAFC | -1.5 (+100) | -250 | Over 3.5 (-157) |
| LA Galaxy | +1.5 (-121) | +420 | Under 3.5 (+128) |
| Draw | N/A | +525 | N/A |
Odds taken August 21
LA Galaxy (0-3-2) are in an unfamiliar position at the bottom of the Western Conference; Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s team looked lost at times during MLS is Back, and is one of just three teams in the league that is still winless.
The two clubs met back on July 18, with LAFC claiming a resounding 6-2 decision in the bubble at Disney World.
LAFC: Western Conference Favorite?
When LAFC hit the scene with a flashy ownership group and top-notch coaching staff in 2018, it appeared the club had all the makings of a Western Conference powerhouse.
Fast forward two years and the foundations are in place: Carlos Vela set the MLS single-season record for goals (34) last season, the club finished first overall last campaign and has a beautiful home in the Banc of California Stadium.
The LA Times is reporting that LAFC will have Vela back for Saturday’s derby; furthermore, the outlet is also reporting that Galaxy frontman Chicharito remains sidelined with a calf injury picked up in Orlando last month.
LAFC vs LA Galaxy Stats
| 2-0-3 (1.8 pts/game) | 2020 MLS Reg. Season Record | 0-3-2 (0.4 pts/game) |
| 15 (3.00/game) | Goals scored | 5 (0.50/game) |
| 10 (2.00/game) | Goals conceded | 11 (2.20/game) |
| QF | MLS is Back Tournament Performance | Group Stage |
| 21-4-9 | 2019 Record | 16-15-3 |
| Reg Season: 1st, Playoffs: WC F | 2019 Finish | Reg Season: 8th, Playoffs: WC SF |
| 2-2-3 | H2H Record (W-L-T) | 2-2-3 |
Short Term Memory
LAFC has owned the last two meetings between the two sides, claiming 5-3 and 6-2 wins in the MLS Cup Playoffs (10/24/19) and MLS is Back Tournament (07/08/20).
Prior to that, the matchup either resulted in a draw (three times) or Galaxy win (twice).
Regardless of the outcome, this is a showdown which seems to bring out the attacking flair — and defensive miscues — in either side: a total line of 4.5 would have hit in six of the first seven editions of El Trafico.
Best Bets
Given the general difference in league position and the recent-ish demolition job LAFC did on the Galaxy last month in the bubble, the result of Saturday’s match feels nearly pre-destined — especially given the designated player injury situation outlined by the Times.
Hammering the ‘Over’ is a given just based on head-to-head history and Galaxy’s propensity for allowing goals (2.2 per game); those feeling greedy may want to consider the 4.5 line.
Picks: LAFC -1.5 (+100), Over 4.5 (+143)
Carlos Verde is a sports media professional, with writing featured in a number of outlets, including the Epoch Times, Ottawa Life Magazine and Where is Football. He also served as a broadcast commentator for the United Soccer League's Ottawa Fury FC.
