MLS 2019: Portland Timbers vs LA Galaxy – tactical analysis

After the victory at the El Tráfico derby, LA Galaxy suffered a huge defeat (4-0) against Portland Timbers. Despite the slightly shocking result in this MLS game, Galaxy had this inconsistency in their performance. According to the previous six MLS games, they fluctuated between a win and lose. Meanwhile, Portland Timbers have been showing really strong performances lately as they extended their unbeaten streak to six games now with this victory.

In their match against LA Galaxy, Portland’s tactics showed they posed a lot of danger via counter-attacks. They were also good at winning the ball back with the instant press after losing it. Although having said that, the game did not look a great victory for them until they scored two quick goals in the later stage of the first half. As for Galaxy, we saw them struggle to break down the opposition defence and create chances. This tactical analysis will investigate how Portland Timbers managed to beat Los Angeles Galaxy with fair ease. 

Lineups

Home side head coach Giovanni Savarese deployed the usual 4-2-3-1 formation with some changes in the team selection. Jorge Moreira returned to the left-back position after missing the last game against NYCFC. Same goes for Julio Cascante and Jorge Villafaña who replaced Claude Dielna and Marco Farfan. Cristhian Paredes also took back his midfield position to form a double pivot with Renzo Zambrano. Lastly, in the attacking department, Blanco moved to the right-wing and thus Jeremy Ebobisse could take over the left side.

On the other hand, Guillermo Barros Schelotto also selected a 4-2-3-1 formation for the guests and used the same starting XI as he did against LAFC.