The LA Galaxy opted to use a defensive-minded lineup for Wednesday’s match against the Portland Timbers. Julian Araujo, traditionally a fullback, moved up to right with Rolf Feltscher on the back line. Efrain Álvarez and Sebastian Lletget both also started on the bench, leaving the Galaxy lacking in firepower.
Interestingly, it wasn’t the offense that suffered so much as the defense in a disastrous first half in Portland. The Timbers were patient and easily found openings on offense despite L.A. committing numbers to that end and scored three goals in the first 30 minutes en route to a 5-2 win.