LA Galaxy at LAFC match preview: What to watch, projected starting 11 and TV schedule

El Trafico is back.

The sixth edition of this instant classic scorched earth of a derby between the LA Galaxy and Los Angeles Football Club kicks off Thursday night. (7:30 PT, ESPN)

What to watch

No more fun and games. This is a different Trafico in more ways than one. Yes its the MLS Cup playoffs, but for arguably the first time LAFC are not coming into the match brimming with confidence as heavy favorites.

Despite Carlos Vela’s triumphant Golden Boot victory on Decision Day, the Black and Gold did not end the season on a high note as opposing teams found success countering LAFC’s lethal attack. Bob Bradley will likely have Adama Diomande and Walter Zimmerman available but the instrumental Mark Anthony-Kaye remains questionable.

Conversely Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s team just pulled off a convincing road victory at a deafening Allianz Field: Now the team travels home to play at a venue which will have thousands of Galaxy fans in attendance, with zero pressure on the team’s shoulders.

In some ways the quick turnaround is a relief. The short timeframe between Sunday’s victory and the semis spares all of us from the usual drama and other shenanigans surrounding El Traficos. Thursday will just be about the football. (Hopefully)

Three advantages for LA heading into El Trafico. Despite playing at the Banc Thursday’s matchup uniquely favors the Galaxy in several ways.

Projected starting XI

How to watch

Date/Time Thursday Oct. 24th 7:00 PT
Venue Banc of California Stadium
TV ESPN

Match officials

Referee Kevin Stott
ARs Brian Poeschel, Andrew Bigelow 4th official Christopher Penso
VAR Dave Gantar