The Seattle Sounders are visiting LAFC on Saturday (3 p.m. PT; ESPN, 950 KJR AM, El Rey 1360 AM) in their first meeting of the 2021 Major League Soccer season. Here are three matchups to watch:
Will Bruin vs. Jesús David Murillo
Bruin bullied Minnesota United center back Brent Kallman, a defender of similar stature to the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Bruin, in the Sounders’ 4-0 season-opening win. New LAFC center back Murillo, as well as running mate Eddie Segura, each give up over 40 pounds to the Seattle target forward. Bruin uses his large frame to create space and opportunities for himself, but especially for Raúl Ruidíaz, who was the beneficiary of a Bruin assist last week.
Cristian Roldan vs. Eduard Atuesta
Roldan excelled in a more attacking central midfield position in Seattle’s win over Minnesota United. Atuesta is one of the best defensive midfielders in MLS and will be responsible for trying to keep Roldan in front of him, a gigantic ask given the amount of ground the Los Angeles native covers.
Nouhou and Brad Smith vs. Carlos Vela
The 2019 MLS MVP is still one of the best players in the league and will command the attention of both left back Smith and left center back Nouhou. The left-footed Vela operates as in inverted winger in Bob Bradley’s 4-3-3 formation and has the quality to set up teammates in front of goal or score himself. He’s the No. 1 player the Sounders need to hone in on defensively.
