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

By Marko Babic

CARSON, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 31: Zlatan Ibrahimovic #9 of Los Angeles Galaxy celebrates his second goal against the Portland Timbers during the second half at Dignity Health Sports Park on March 31, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)
CARSON, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 31: Zlatan Ibrahimovic #9 of Los Angeles Galaxy celebrates his second goal against the Portland Timbers during the second half at Dignity Health Sports Park on March 31, 2019 in Carson, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images) /
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PALO ALTO, CA – JUNE 29: Los Angeles Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (9) heads the ball toward the goal during the MLS game between the Los Angeles Galaxy and San Jose Earthquakes on June 29, 2019 at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto, CA (Photo by Bob Kupbens/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
PALO ALTO, CA – JUNE 29: Los Angeles Galaxy forward Zlatan Ibrahimovic (9) heads the ball toward the goal during the MLS game between the Los Angeles Galaxy and San Jose Earthquakes on June 29, 2019 at Stanford Stadium in Palo Alto, CA (Photo by Bob Kupbens/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /

2. The impending aerial battle

With legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic leading the line, the home side do not shy away from long balls and crosses launched in the direction of the polarizing Swede.

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Bearing that in mind, TFC will have to find a way to combat LA’s aerial prowess. Vanney could play it safe, returning to a 5-4-1 in order to have a spare man in defense. Alternatively, Toronto FC could stick with the 4-1-4-1, which has served them well over their last two matches.

If Vanney chooses the latter, Eriq Zavaleta and Chris Mavinga present the best options at center-back as they have won a combined 3.5 headers per game this year. Left-back Justin Morrow is also solid in the air, possessing a clear advantage over Ashtone Morgan in that department. The Reds will be most vulnerable at right-back. Auro and Richie Laryea rarely win headers, though Vanney may opt for the Brazilian insofar as he slightly better than Laryea in the air.

Toronto FC will need to nullify the Galaxy’s aerial threat if they are to come away with a win. Consequently, Vanney must choose his backline carefully on Thursday night.

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