Los Angeles Football is raising concerns this season as the Black and Gold lost their third straight defeat.
Last Saturday, LAFC lost to Portland Timbers 2-0 at Providence Park, with goals from Claudio Bravo and Larrys Mabiala.
Two weeks before losing to Portland, LAFC suffered two defeats against Inter Miami and Charlotte Football Club. In the last three games, LAFC only scored two goals and conceded seven.
Is It Time to Panic?
Of course, losing three games in a row twice is concerning, but it’s not time to panic just yet. LAFC started the 2023 MLS season brilliantly; they lost three of twenty matches.
After the CONCACAF Champions League Final, LAFC lost nine games, drew three, and won six. So far, the performances as a team or individually haven’t been up a level.
Denis Bouanga missed the Portland game and hasn’t scored in a month. New Signing Mario González only scored one goal in four matches. Defenders Aaron Long, Denil Maldonado, and Jesús Murillo’s performances have dipped. When Chiellini is not on the team, LAFC can’t defend properly, and scoring is a problem for the attackers.
After the CONCACAF Champions League Final versus Leon, Midfielder Timothy Tillman lost his form. Overall, the team lost its identity and is not the same as it used to be. Therefore, LAFC will have a hard time defending the MLS Cup and most likely end the season trophyless.
Is There Hope?
As mentioned before, it is not time to panic just yet, but doubts are understandable. LAFC is still in third place with a chance to get into the playoffs. They’re currently a +1000 underdog to win the MLS Cup.
However, the Black and Gold are closer to the final series playoffs to the top.
Although closing the gap to Saint Louis is catchable, LAFC must turn things around, and it’s up to the players and manager Steve Cherundolo.
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