LAFC: 3 takeaways from 2-0 win over FC Dallas
By Daniel Garza
Three takeaways from LAFC’s 2-0 win over FC Dallas.
Los Angeles FC got back to winning ways on Wednesday night as they defeated visiting FC Dallas. After a loss and a draw in their previous two matches, the hosts were able to capitalize on their opportunities to register their third victory of the 2021 Major League Soccer season. Goals from Carlos Vela and Latif Blessing propelled LAFC to the 2-0 win and Tomas Romero picked up the clean sheet. Here are three takeaways from the match.
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Vela opens his account
Having failed to score in his first five appearances of the season, Vela was able to register his first goal of the campaign on Wednesday. He produced a great turn and shot in the penalty area that left the goalkeeper with no hope of stopping his effort. In addition to his first-half goal, Vela also provided the assist on Blessing’s second-half goal. His assist increases his season total to three assists as Vela now has at least a goal or an assist in three of his last four appearances. While his goal-scoring numbers may not be trending in the direction of previous seasons, he has been helping the LAFC attack by dishing out assists.
Dallas struggle in the final third
One of the statistics from the match that stands out is Dallas only had a 58% pass completion percentage in the final third. This was far lower than LAFC who posted a completion percentage of 72.9% in the final third. Dallas ended up being outshot 19 to 13 and they managed just one shot on goal. LAFC’s backline deserves credit for one of their best performances so far this season by making it difficult for the visitors to get high-quality scoring opportunities. Dallas certainly struggled in this match to generate the offensive firepower needed to take a result away from playing against LAFC.
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A crucial win before the road trip
Following the victory over Dallas, LAFC will now turn their attention to three away fixtures in the weeks to come. They will have to face Sporting Kansas City, Real Salt Lake, and Austin FC during the three-game away stretch. With this upcoming challenging road trip, it was important that they recorded all three points against Dallas. They have closed the gap on the top seven places in the Western Conference and should have confidence entering the trip after a clean sheet performance. LAFC has yet to record an away victory this season which they will be looking to change in the coming matches.