SportingKC.com "Five Things" feature will highlights the top storylines, players to watch, and more for upcoming matches.
Sporting Kansas City returns to Major League Soccer play on Sunday afternoon as they host the LA Galaxy. Tickets are available at SeatGeek.com with live coverage starting at 1 pm CT on FOX Sports KC+, FOX Sports Go, Sports Radio 810 WHB, and La Grande 1340 AM. Here's five things to know for #SKCvLA.
Back to MLS
After winning their fourth Lamar Hunt U.S. Open Cup on Wednesday, the focus now turns to Major League Soccer. Six matches remain in the regular season and Sunday's match is an important opportunity for Sporting KC to improve the playoff positioning. Heading into this weekend's matches, only seven points separates first place from eighth place in the Western Conference.
Following the emotional Open Cup Final victory, Manager Peter Vermes could look to rotate the squad for Sunday's match. This will be a test of the team's depth, which has improved recently with the signings of Cristian Lobato, Kevin Oliveira, and Kharlton Belmar. On the other end, the Galaxy will be without midfielder Jermaine Jones due to suspension (red card).
LA looking for revenge
Back in June, Sporting KC earned a 2-1 victory at StubHub Center thanks to a stunning Ike Opara goal. Since that loss, LA have struggled (1-11-2 record) and their playoff hopes are now hanging on by a thread. The Galaxy will look to play a spoiler role and earn their first win at Kansas City since 2007.
- Jon Kempin (LA): The former Sporting KC goalkeeper has recently took over the starting spot and will be key to the Galaxy's chances on Sunday
- Roger Espinoza (SKC): The box-to-box midfielder's work rate and ability to win the ball will be important as Sporting KC plays their third match in nine days
Key to the match
- Avoiding a letdown: After winning a trophy on Wednesday, Sporting KC will need to be prepared for what could be the toughest regular season home match of the season. They'll be facing a talented Galaxy side that will be looking to rebound following a tough loss at Atlanta United. If Sporting KC shows any complacency on Sunday, Giovani dos Santos and Romain Alessandrini are more than capable of capitalizing.
