As the Leagues Cup reaches the round of 16, Los Angeles FC will host the San Jose Earthquakes at BMO Stadium as their quest for silverware continues in what could be Olivier Giroud’s club debut. While Denis Bouanga’s goals have been one of the driving forces behind the Black and Gold this season, he may be getting some decorated support alongside him atop the attack if the Frenchman sees the pitch.
Since Cristian Arango’s departure, LAFC have been searching for a No. 9 to lead the line but that void could be filled. Giroud agreed to join LAFC on a free transfer at the end of April from Milan but wasn’t able to actually join the team until the beginning of August following the end of the European season and Euros with France.
Now, he’ll be available for selection. Head coach Steve Cherundolo was to the point when asked about Giroud’s status for the match saying, “Olivier will be available [Tuesday].” While that doesn’t mean that he’ll start the match after just under two weeks of training with the Black and Gold, it does add a sense of intrigue to their match.
Here are our storylines, how you can watch the match and more:
How to watch and odds
- Date: Tuesday, Aug. 13 | Time: 10:30 ET
- Location: BMO Stadium — Los Angeles, Calif.
- Live stream: MLS Season Pass
- Odds: LAFC -320; Draw +450; San Jose Earthquakes +750
Storylines
LAFC: In every Leagues Cup match that he has featured in, Bouanga has scored or assisted a goal, so he’ll be turned to yet again to ensure that LAFC are the winning side but the defense will also be important. San Jose have scored eight goals in Leagues Cup play so far as they’re getting things back on track under interim coach Ian Russell.
Team: With the current golden boot leader on their side in Jeremy Ebobisse, who has four goals so far in the tournament, San Jose have used the Leagues Cup as a moment to forget their poor MLS form. The Quakes are at the bottom of the Western Conference but they haven’t played like it making it to the last 16. On house money, they’re going to come into this match with freedom looking to pull off the upset.
Prediction
Despite San Jose’s good form as of late, the buzzsaw of LAFC will prove to be too much especially boosted by Giroud’s availability. Pick: LAFC 3, San Jose 1
KVSP