Dos Santos: ‘Amazing’ for LA derby to headline MLS restart
July 18, 2026 · Mónica Ríos
Marc Dos Santos expresses excitement for the LA derby as MLS resumes, highlighting the rivalry between LAFC and LA Galaxy.
Dos Santos: ‘Amazing’ for LA derby to headline MLS restart
Why this matters
The LA derby, known as El Tráfico, is a pivotal match in MLS football, not just for the teams involved but for the league as a whole. With LAFC currently in fifth place and the Galaxy in ninth, this match could significantly impact their season outlook and playoff aspirations. The fierce rivalry adds an extra layer of intensity, making it a must-watch event for fans and a crucial moment for both MLS clubs.
Background
Marc Dos Santos, head coach of LAFC, has emphasized the importance of this rivalry, stating that regardless of the teams' standings, an LAFC-LA Galaxy match is always significant. Both teams are expected to bring their best efforts, showcasing the passion and competitive spirit that defines MLS football.
Key Takeaways
- Dos Santos: ‘Amazing’ for LA derby to headline MLS restart.
- Marc Dos Santos expresses excitement for the LA derby as MLS resumes, highlighting the rivalry between LAFC and LA Galaxy.
- Marc Dos Santos remains central to Los Angeles FC's plans.
Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney echoed Dos Santos' sentiments, saying, "It's a hell of a way to get started. I don't know that either team will be the perfect version of themselves coming off such a long break, but it won't change the emotion and competitive spirit that's going to be present in this game for both the fans, players, and everyone involved."
In terms of players to watch, for the LA Galaxy, Joseph Paintsil scored the team's only goal in their last match before the break. He has been instrumental in the Galaxy's offense, contributing to at least one goal in each of the last 12 regular-season goals dating back to mid-April. Meanwhile, for LAFC, Denis Bouanga has been a standout performer, scoring eight goals in eight regular-season meetings against the Galaxy, including goals in each of the last six encounters. Notably, Raul Ruidiaz was the last player to achieve a similar scoring streak against a single opponent, doing so from 2019 to 2022.
As for match predictions, many analysts suggest the match could end in a draw. LAFC had a difficult run leading up to the break, losing their last three away matches and managing only one victory in their last eight road games across all competitions. Conversely, the Galaxy experienced a mixed bag of results before the hiatus, with their last three matches yielding a loss, a win, and a draw. Historically, clashes between these two teams have been high-scoring, with both teams finding the net in 14 of the 26 all-time meetings. According to OPTA, the win probability stands at 40.9% for LAFC, 33.4% for LA Galaxy, and 25.7% for a draw.
What happens next
As the MLS season resumes, both teams will be eager to gain momentum from this derby clash. For LAFC, a victory could solidify their position in the playoff race, while the Galaxy will aim to climb the standings and prove their competitiveness. The outcome of this match will not only affect their immediate standings but also set the tone for the remainder of the season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the score of the last match between LAFC and LA Galaxy?
The last match prior to the hiatus saw LAFC secure a narrow 1-0 victory over the Seattle Sounders, while the Galaxy managed to draw 1-1 with the Houston Dynamo.
How does the LAFC vs LA Galaxy match impact the standings?
Currently, LAFC is in fifth place and the Galaxy is in ninth place in the Western Conference, with just four points separating the two teams.
When is the next fixture for LAFC and LA Galaxy?
The next fixture is the derby clash between Los Angeles FC and LA Galaxy, known as El Tráfico, which headlines the MLS restart.
What is the significance of the LAFC vs LA Galaxy match?
Marc Dos Santos emphasized that this match is significant as it is considered the biggest rivalry in MLS, regardless of the teams' standings.
Who are the key players to watch in the upcoming LAFC vs LA Galaxy match?
For the LA Galaxy, Joseph Paintsil is a key player to watch, as he scored the team's only goal in their last match before the break.
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