LAvSEA: Three Matchups to Watch, presented by Toyota

The Seattle Sounders visit the LA Galaxy on Wednesday (8:00 p.m. PT; JOEtv, Prime Video, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360AM) in a clash of two traditional Western Conference powerhouses. Here are three matchups to watch, presented by Toyota.

Kelvin Leerdam vs. Cristian Pavon

One of the highest-profile signings in the league last season, Cristian Pavón immediately added some dynamism and creativity to a Galaxy side that was sorely lacking in both departments. While he hasn’t hit the full heights expected for a player of his club and international pedigree, he’s still one of the most dangerous wingers in MLS.

As demonstrated in the club’s 3-0 win over the Portland Timbers, Kelvin Leerdam is an extremely capable two-way defender. If he can keep Pavón quiet, he’ll cut off the majority of LA’s attacking impetus at the source. More importantly, look for Leerdam to take advantage of Pavón’s defensive limitations, bombing forward on the overlap and creating wide overloads with Cristian Roldan.

Nicolás Lodeiro vs. Perry Kitchen

Nicolás Lodeiro put in an impressive shift against Portland, showcasing just how impactful he regardless of whether the team has sustained possession or is attacking in transition. Facing off against a Galaxy back line that has conceded 11 goals from the first six regular season matches, the midfield maestro should enjoy plenty of success in the final third.

Part of the Galaxy’s success against LAFC was keeping their midfield lines compact, with Perry Kitchen and Joe Corona clogging up Zone 14 – the central space just in front of the penalty area. Given his elite mobility, covering every blade of grass on the pitch, Lodeiro should be able to drag Kitchen out of the middle, creating space for the likes of Raúl Ruidíaz to exploit.

Jordan Morris vs. Rolf Feltscher

I could go in-depth on how Jordan Morris and Rolf Feltscher compare stylistically, juxtaposing their roles within their respective tactical systems. Or, I could just leave this here.

When the Sounders dropped four goals on the Galaxy last fall, Morris drew Feltscher toward the middle of the box for the first, leaving Ruidíaz wide open at the back post for a tap-in. In the second half, Morris dragged the LA right back inside, turned him with a clever touch, and then raced in behind for Seattle’s third goal. Lastly, on the game-winning goal, Morris engaged Feltscher 1-v-1 before slipping a reverse pass for an overlapping Brad Smith, who drove the ball across goal for Roldan to smash home.

More of that, please.