LAFC face a quick turnaround this week when they take on Minnesota United in Major League Soccer play on Wednesday night.
The Black and Gold managed to extend their winning streak to five matches in all competitions after their dramatic 1-0 victory over Atlanta United. It wasn’t the most convincing wins as both sides finished the contest with 10 players with a deflected free kick making the difference, but it was three points in the end for LAFC.
LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo opted for a 3-4-3 setup against Atlanta, ditching his usual 4-3-3 formation. With Eduard Atuesta suspended and Ilie Sanchez out through injury, Cherundolo may have no choice but to stick with the rather defensive formation as he’s short on players in the middle of the park.
Here’s how Cherundolo’s side could take the pitch against Minnesota.
GK: Hugo Lloris – The veteran Frenchman mad himself big in goal against Atlanta with five saves to keep the clean sheet intact.
RB: Ryan Hollingshead – He returned from injury last time out with a brief cameo in the latter stages and looks set to rejoin the XI.
CB: Jesus Murillo – Murillo bolsters the right-hand side of the back three after a strong showing vs Atlanta.
CB: Maxime Chanot – The 34-year-old gets the starting nod in the center of defense and will be tested against the likes of Tani Oluwaseyi and Sang-Bin Jeong.
CB: Aaron Long – He’s been in sensational form as of late and will look to lock down the left side of the back three.
RM: Sergi Palencia – Palencia takes on the wing-back role once again with Ryan Hollingshead still regaining fitness.
CM: Timothy Tillman – The former Bayern Munich youth player patrols the midfield alongside Bogusz.
CM: Mateusz Bogusz – Bogusz drops back into midfield due to the lack of midfielders available in the squad.
LM: Omar Campos – The former Santos Laguna player should have plenty of opportunities to spring forward down the left-hand side on counter attacks.
RW: Cristian Olivera – Olivera keeps his place in Cherundolo’s XI after a sring of solid performances.
ST: Kei Kamara – As Bogusz is likely to feature from midfield, the MLS icon gets a chance up front and center.
LW: Denis Bouanga – The reigning Golden Boot winner will have his sights set on goal after blanking in his last outing.
