LA Galaxy Vs Toronto FC: 3 things to watch – Containing Zlatan

Toronto FC continue their road swing when they meet the LA Galaxy on Thursday. Here are three things to look for ahead of the match in Los Angeles.

Toronto FC travel to Los Angeles to take on the Los Angeles Galaxy on Thursday night in the second game of their three-match road trip. Toronto FC are coming off of a heated 1-1 away draw against D.C. United and are currently occupying the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference on 23 points. The LA Galaxy, meanwhile, have had a fine season thus far, sitting in second in the West and will be looking to bounce back from their lopsided 3-0 defeat in the California Clasico.

Both teams will be missing key players on Thursday. The Reds will be without stars Michael Bradley and Jozy Altidore due to their participation in the Gold Cup, while defender Drew Moor is out with a hamstring strain. Winger Romain Alessandrini remains unavailable for the home side after undergoing knee surgery, whereas Jonathan dos Santos and Uriel Antuna are away on international duty.

Here are three things to look for heading into Thursday night’s clash at Dignity Health Sports Park.

3. Key players return for Toronto FC

Toronto FC will re-incorporate four players into their line-up on Thursday. Ashtone Morgan and Jonathan Osorio return to the squad following Canada’s embarrassing early exit from the Gold Cup, while defenders Auro and Chris Mavinga are also expected to return after recovering from their respective hamstring injuries.

Osorio’s return is particularly important. The left central midfielder provides stability in possession, while offering a reliable attacking threat. The Canadian international has completed 88% of his passes, recorded three goals and three assists, and contributed 1.1 key passes per game this season. Nick DeLeon rose to the occasion in Osorio’s absence. The versatile veteran started three of five games in Osorio’s place, scoring two goals in the process. DeLeon has also been integral from a strategic standpoint, with his runs into the box allowing Alejandro Pozuelo to operate as a false nine over the past two games.

Osorio has also played left wing in the past and thus could compete with emerging youngster Jacob Shaffelburg for a spot in Greg Vanney’s starting line-up. Shaffelburg is the more direct of the two and should start if Toronto FC intend to defend deep and counter. Osorio tends to drift into the left-inside channel when played on the wing, hence the Brampton-native ought to replace Shaffelburg provided Vanney prioritizes possession against the Galaxy.

Osorio is one of Toronto FC’s most talented players. It will be interesting to see how he fits into Vanney’s plans following the development of DeLeon and Shaffelburg in his absence.