Hold on to your hats folks, we have a real corker on our hands with Los Angeles FC squaring off against Colorado Rapids.
First things first; let's talk net-minders. Colorado's keeper, Nicholas Defreitas-Hansen, has been a safe pair of gloves with an impressive rating of 7.10 and a solid 20 saves this season. On the other side of the pitch, LA FC will be counting on Hugo Lloris and David Ochoa, both with somewhat humble ratings and paltry save records. It's clear who's been busier this season, although in football, anything can happen.
Now, when it comes to the stars on the pitch, Colorado Rapids' Đorđe Mihailović and Calvin Harris are the guys to watch. Mihailović boasts a muscular 7.75 rating, proving his worth with 1 goal and a passing accuracy of 77.0%. Harris, with his 7.18 rating, 2 goals, and passing accuracy of 83.0% is sure to be a difference maker.
LAFC, however, are not short of game-changers. Their man up front, Denis Bouanga has been delivering the goods with an 8.50 rating and a goal to boot. Not to forget Eddie Segura, with an impressive rating of 7.70 and a goal, will certainly be a player Colorado's defense will need to contain.
Previously, LA FC has had Colorado's number. Their past clashes show a clear domination by LA FC, pulling off resounding wins more often than not. However, the regular season records of both teams this year suggest a bit more of an even footing. Colorado Rapids hold a record of 7 wins, 5 draws, and 9 losses, while LA FC sport a slightly better 7 wins, 5 draws, and 5 losses.
It's definitely a nail-biter folks, with both teams have had a mixed run in their recent results. Given Colorado's tendency to draw and lose compared to their victories, and LA FC's relatively balanced performance, the match is shaping up to be a tug-of-war between two evenly matched rivals.
After mulling over all these factors, here's my fearless forecast:
Albert’s Prediction: Los Angeles FC by 2