LAFC vs Columbus Crew: Preview, predictions and lineups

Two of Major League Soccer’s best clubs will go head-to-head this weekend as LAFC take on Columbus Crew at BMO Stadium.

The Black and Gold have been on an absolute tear in MLS play having won nine of their last 10 matches to reach first place in the Western Conference with 43 points. Steve Cherundolo’s side got the better of in-state rivals LA Galaxy in the latest edition of El Trafico, winning 2-1 at the iconic Rose Bowl stadium last week.

The reigning league champions have also enjoyed a surge in form in recent weeks, winning five of their last six matches in league play. The Crew are favorites to go all the way once again this season to win their fourth MLS Cup title, and their recent performances against Toronto FC and Nashville SC have further strengthened their case.

Here’s 90min‘s guide to LAFC vs Columbus Crew.

Last meeting: Columbus Crew 2-1 LAFC (9 December 2023) – MLS Cup final

Current form (all competitions)

As Uruguay advanced to the Copa America semi-finals over Brazil, Cristian Oliver will remain away from the Western Conference team until La Celeste are eliminated or win the competition.

Defenders Aaron Long and Lorenzo Dellavalle are the only two players on the injury list and they’re expected to return to action by the middle of July. Stipe Biuk, who’s been on loan at Real Valladolid, has joined the Spanish club permanently after a couple of average seasons with LAFC.

LAFC’s match against Houston Dynamo was schedule for Sunday night but ended up getting postponed due to inclement weather, meaning the team will be a bit fresher for their midweek US Open Cup contest vs New Mexico United before taking on Columbus.

LAFC predicted lineup vs Columbus Crew ( 4-3-3 ): Lloris; Palencia, Murillo, Chanot, Hollingshead; Tillman, Sanchez, Atuesta; Bogusz, Kamara, Bouanga.