With only two days until the playoff for the final FIFA Club World Cup spot against Club America, LAFC enters in solid form, unbeaten in its last eight (through five were draws).
But just like Jesper Sørensen with Cruz Azul, Steve Cherundolo, the LAFC manager and his staff face a far less familiar challenge in trying to limit Club America on Saturday night.
Let's take a look at three Aguilas players who will be the most important for LAFC to limit if they want to book the place in the tournament that was vacated by Club Leon.
One note before we begin: Club America has many players with questionable injury status. That's why these top three are players who are confirmed to be playing.
Alvaro Fidalgo
Alvaro Fidalgo is the mastermind behind the offensive power of Club America. The 28-year-old midfielder sets the rhythm of the play and connects the lines between the defense and the offense to pose as much danger as possible.
His tactical intelligence and passing precision make him a risk for LAFC. He reads the game with clarity. His positioning is impeccable. His quick and sharp decision-making makes him a valuable asset in manager André Jardine's scheme.
However, he not only creates America's offense but also scores goals. Fidalgo is a midfielder who often gets into the box, which explains his eight goals in 42 matches.
Those numbers may seem low, but it's crucial to remember he's a playmaking midfielder, not a finisher.
Alejandro Zendejas
Probably the most influential player in the box. Zendejas is a constant threat on the right side of the field. His speed and agility help him to beat the defender on the wing.
Alejandro has 11 goals and 11 assists this season, making him responsible for most of the goals Club America scores. The 27-year-old's accuracy is impressive. Thanks to the key passes delivered by the right winger, the Mexican club consistently creates clear chances to shoot on goal.
A crucial player for creating scoring opportunities, his crosses are like guided missiles aimed at his strikers' heads. However, his best attribute comes from his game knowledge. He's an elite decision-maker in terms of knowing when to play the simple pass and when to take a risk.
Henry Martín
While Zendejas is in exceptional form, Henry Martín is the more seasoned goalscorer of Club America. And the 32-year-old still has 11 goals this season as a fundamental piece of Jardine's tactics.
The veteran footballer is known for scoring in decisive moments and for his influential performances in high-stakes matches.
His experience in the game, combined with his physical strength, makes him a constant threat to defenders in the box. Even though Martín stands at just 5-foot-10, his power allows him to dominate aerial duels.
He also contributes in the high press to recover the ball.