Vancouver Whitecaps Fc Van vs Los Angeles Fc Lfc Picks and Predictions October 13th 2024

Whitecaps’ Goal vs. LAFC: Avoid Wild-Card Game

For the Vancouver Whitecaps, Sunday’s match against visiting LAFC carries high stakes, as a victory could significantly impact their playoff positioning. The Whitecaps (13-11-8, 47 points) have already secured a playoff spot in the Western Conference, but their focus is now on avoiding the single-elimination wild-card match. A win would propel them back into the top seven and ensure they advance directly to the first round of the playoffs, sidestepping the uncertainty of a wild-card game.

Vanni Sartini’s Take on the Importance of the Match

Vancouver manager Vanni Sartini emphasized how crucial this match is for his team, especially after some recent setbacks. “It’s very important,” Sartini said. “Unfortunately, we didn’t do well in the last couple of games. So now this game became a game that can get us back in the top seven and avoid the first round of the playoffs… So we want to be there at the end.”

While the Whitecaps have struggled in their past few matches, Sunday’s game presents an opportunity to get back on track. A win would move them above Minnesota United and into seventh place, ensuring a direct path into round one of the playoffs and avoiding the pressure of a single-elimination wild-card match against Portland.

Whitecaps’ Absences and Key Players

Vancouver will be shorthanded in this pivotal matchup, with several key players unavailable due to international duty. Among the missing is MLS MVP candidate Ryan Gauld, whose playmaking abilities have been a cornerstone of the Whitecaps’ success this season. Additionally, attacker Fafa Picault and holding midfielder Andres Cubas will also be absent, leaving a significant gap in Vancouver’s lineup.

However, the team’s scoring leader, Brian White, is expected to play. White has been crucial for Vancouver this season, and his performance will be vital in the absence of Gauld and Picault. If the Whitecaps hope to get the result they need against a strong LAFC side, White must step up and lead the offensive effort.

LAFC’s Playoff Push and Missing Stars

LAFC (17-8-7, 58 points) enters the match in second place in the Western Conference and still has a chance to finish first if they win their final two games and the LA Galaxy lose their season finale. However, like Vancouver, LAFC will be missing key players. Their leading scorer, Denis Bouanga, and rising teenage prospect David Martinez are both on international duty, significantly reducing their offensive firepower. The duo has contributed four goals and an assist in LAFC’s recent three-match winning streak.

Additionally, Cristian Olivera is also away on international duty, leaving the offensive burden on veteran French striker Olivier Giroud and Polish attacker Mateusz Bogusz. Giroud, despite his legendary status with France’s national team, is still searching for his first MLS goal since signing with LAFC this summer. Bogusz, on the other hand, has more MLS experience and will be a key figure in LAFC’s attack.

Cherundolo’s Focus on Securing the Second Seed

While LAFC has an outside chance of taking first place in the Western Conference, head coach Steve Cherundolo is more focused on securing the second seed. “I’m not sure it’s an extra motivator,” Cherundolo said regarding the possibility of topping the conference. “It’s there. It’s part of the reality of the situation. But winning games at this point of the season is motivation enough. And also to secure up the second spot.”

Cherundolo’s pragmatic approach reflects the importance of solidifying LAFC’s position heading into the playoffs, especially given the absences of key players. While finishing first is still a possibility, the main focus remains on entering the playoffs strong by finishing the regular season on a high note.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Brian White vs. LAFC Defense

With Ryan Gauld out, Brian White will carry much of the offensive burden for the Whitecaps. His ability to find space and capitalize on chances will be crucial, especially with LAFC’s defense focused on keeping him contained. Vancouver’s attack will rely heavily on White’s form and finishing abilities to break through LAFC’s backline.

2. Olivier Giroud’s Impact

Giroud, still looking for his first MLS goal, will play a significant role in LAFC’s attack, particularly with Denis Bouanga and David Martinez unavailable. If Giroud can find his rhythm and open his MLS account, it could be the spark LAFC needs to secure a win and build momentum heading into the playoffs.

3. Vancouver’s Midfield Without Cubas

The absence of holding midfielder Andres Cubas will test Vancouver’s depth in the middle of the field. LAFC, even with key absences, remains dangerous in midfield, and Vancouver’s ability to control possession and break up attacks will be a key factor. Without Cubas, the Whitecaps will need to rely on a solid team effort to prevent LAFC from dictating the game.

Game Expectations

With both teams missing key players due to international duty, Sunday’s match will test the depth and adaptability of both squads. For Vancouver, the stakes are clear: a win would secure a top-seven finish and allow them to avoid the pressure of a wild-card match. LAFC, while aiming for first place, will be content with consolidating their hold on second and entering the playoffs with confidence.

Expect a hard-fought match, with both sides pushing for a positive result. Vancouver will need a strong performance from Brian White, while LAFC will look to Olivier Giroud and Mateusz Bogusz to lead their attack. In a match that could go either way, the Whitecaps’ desperation to avoid the wild-card game might just give them the extra edge they need.

Ultimately, this matchup will come down to who can better cope with the key absences in their lineup and execute their game plan. Vancouver’s home-field advantage and determination to avoid the wild-card game could be the difference-maker in this crucial Western Conference clash.