Los Angeles Galaxy have set themselves up for a dramatic finale of the MLS 2021 regular season as they host Minnesota United at Dignity Health Tennis Center on Sunday in a must-win game.
The hosts' chances of making it into the playoffs rest completely on the outcome of the game and a win will guarantee them a spot. If they drop points here, they will have to hold their breath for the outcome of other games.
For Minnesota United, a draw would be enough to see them through to the playoffs.
Los Angeles Galaxy vs Minnesota United Head-to-Head
The two teams have squared off nine times in the MLS so far. The hosts have been the better side in the fixture and lead 6-1 in wins, with two games ending in stalemates.
This will be the third meeting between the two clubs, with the home side recording a 1-0 win in August. Minnesota United returned the favor with a resounding 3-0 win in September. Both games were played at Allianz Field.
Los Angeles Galaxy form guide (MLS): D-L-D-W-W
Minnesota United for guide (MLS): W-L-D-W-W
Los Angeles Galaxy vs Minnesota United Team News
Los Angeles Galaxy
Jorge Villafana is the only injury concern for the home side ahead of the crucial game and Javier Hernandez is expected to lead the lineup once again.
Injured: Jorge Villafana
Doubtful: None
Suspended: None
Minnesota United
Justin McMaster remains sidelined with a thigh injury and is the only injury concern for The Loons.
Injured: Justin McMaster
Doubtful: None
Suspended: None
Los Angeles Galaxy vs Minnesota United Predicted XI
Los Angeles Galaxy Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Jonathan Bond; Niko Hamalainen, Nicholas DePuy, Sega Coulibaly, Julian Araujo; Rayan Raveloson, Jonathan dos Santos; Samuel Grandsir, Efrain Alvarez, Sebastian Lletget; Javier Hernandez
Minnesota United Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Dayne St. Clair; Brent Kallman, Chase Gasper, Bakaye Dibassy, Jukka Raitala; Wil Trapp, Osvaldo Alonso; Franco Fragapane, Ethan Finlay, Emanuel Reynoso; Robin Lod
Los Angeles Galaxy vs Minnesota United Prediction
Minnesota United recorded a home win last time around but have poor away form, winning just three games in the 2021 regular season. The Los Angeles Galaxy have eight wins at Sunday's venue and home advantage could just do the trick for them here.
We predict the game to be a closely contested one, which should end in a narrow win for the home side.
Prediction: Los Angeles Galaxy 2-1 Minnesota United