Los Angeles Hosts MLS Rivalry Tonight

Major League Soccer is back in Los Angeles this Friday, bringing with it a highly anticipated matchup. The Galaxy will face off against crosstown rivals LAFC at Dignity Health Sports Park, famously known as “El Trafico,” likely causing some significant traffic delays in the city.

These “El Trafico” matches are notable events, occurring twice a year in Los Angeles, and tensions run high among the passionate fans of both teams. The game has already sold out, with 27,000 seats expected to be filled by eager supporters.

As both teams look to restart their seasons after a break for the World Cup, the energy should be electric. Neither team will be competing in the upcoming World Cup final, so they’ll be ready to leave it all on the field.

Los Angeles has recently been a massive stage for soccer, hosting eight World Cup games, which included a match featuring Team USA. Galaxy coach Greg Vanney expressed the excitement, and LAFC coach Marc dos Santos added, “If I had to pick a game to restart, it would be this one.”

In terms of the rivalry, the Galaxy and LAFC have faced each other 26 times since LAFC joined the league in 2018, with the Galaxy leading the series with 10 wins, 9 losses, and 7 draws. As they go into this match, the two teams are just four points apart in the standings—LAFC at 7-5-3 with 24 points and the Galaxy at 5-5-5 with 20 points.

Galaxy player Marcos Reus noted the importance of bragging rights in this rivalry, saying, “There’s a lot at stake on both sides, and no one wants to lose.” As he gets ready for his third “El Trafico,” he hopes for a strong start to the season, saying, “It’s time for one more win.”