A quick turnaround and a familiar opponent. That's the challenges LAFC faces on Sunday as they travel to take on FC Dallas.
Three days after a 2-0 win in Los Angeles, LAFC will be hoping to do the double on an FC Dallas side in the midst of a three-match losing streak.
Here are the Toyota Keys to the Match for the second match of LAFC's back-to-back with FC Dallas:
Better Be Up For It
A degree of chippiness crept into LAFC's match with FC Dallas in midweek. After the final witness, the two teams could be seen jawing at one another, which makes this quick turnaround all the more interesting.
Having secured three points in the first match, LAFC has to expect FC Dallas to come out hot at home. The tempo and intensity of the first 20 minutes will set the tone for the match. Bob Bradley will need his squad to be focused and able to meet the aggression Dallas brings in smart ways without abandoning the Black & Gold's style of play.
Be Efficient
The legs are likely to be a bit tired considering the travel and short rest between matches. To mitigate that fatigue, LAFC needs to be predatory in front of goal.
In the first match, it took 38 minutes for LAFC to open the scoring. Despite opportunities, the Black & Gold weren't able to find the second goal until the 83rd minute. That forced LAFC to expend a lot of energy in search of sealing the match. Finding a way to capitalize on those chances earlier will go a long way in this match. Goals change matches and provide you with a certain level of control.
Breakthrough From A Set Piece
After two early goals on corners this season, LAFC's set pieces have run dry as of late.
In a match where both sides will be dealing with a bit of tiredness, set pieces could be pivotal. LAFC had some interesting looks against Dallas on Thursday but the timing and delivery weren't on point. Every corner and free kick should be seen as a potentially game-changing moment. And on the opposite side of the ball, don't give away fouls around the penalty area. With FC Dallas pressing to get back to winning ways, a set-piece goal could be a catalyst for the hosts.
