LA Galaxy vs SJ Earthquakes tips

LA Galaxy occupy second place in the Western Conference but remain nine points behind arch-rivals LAFC in the race to claim the top spot. SJ Earthquakes’ improved form has seen them move into the playoff places in recent weeks and they now sit sixth in the table despite having a very slow start to the campaign.

Galaxy had the home advantage last time out against Toronto, where despite having less of the ball and not creating as many goal-scoring opportunities as their guests the hosts managed to pick up all three points. The teams went in level at the break goalless with Toronto having the better of the play, but a brace from the home sides talisman Ibrahimović late in the game saw LA Galaxy secure their victory.

SJ Earthquakes left it late to defeat Real Salt Lake at the Avaya Stadium but did manage to pick up the win their play just about deserved last weekend. Neither side managed to break the deadlock in the first half despite both teams creating chances to score and the game looked like ending goalless until Dutch striker Hoesen forced the ball home deep into stoppage time to win the game for the home side 1-0.

The recent head to head record between these two clubs and the performances of each team heading into Saturday’s match suggests that over 2.5 goals will be scored, and I have backed LA Galaxy to pinch all three points. Five of the last six competitive meetings between the two clubs have produced over 2.5 goals, while four of LA Galaxy’s and four of SJ Earthquakes’ last six matches have also seen over 2.5 goals scored. LA Galaxy have won two of their last three home games and SJ Earthquakes have lost two and drawn one of their last three away games, which is why we’re backing a 2-1 win for the hosts this weekend.

That Ibrahimović double last time out moved the Swedish striker onto thirteen MLS goals for the season, while American forward Wondolowski leads the way for SJ Earthquakes with eight league goals to his name. We’re confident that over 2.5 goals will be scored on Saturday and have predicted a final scoreline of 2-1 in favour of LA Galaxy. The hosts have outperformed their guests so far this season but I are expecting a very close and competitive ninety minutes between the pair. SJ Earthquakes’ recent away form is the only thing that has let them down of late and that is also something I think will play a big part in Saturday’s result.