When contemplating Friday’s anticipated matchup between the LA Galaxy and Houston Dynamo (8:00 PT, UniMás), one’s mind can easily wander to the past. As you may recall, LA let a two-goal advantage slip on the final day of the regular season en route to a stunning upset: The Dynamo topped the Galaxy and knocked them out of the playoffs in one fell swoop.

Of course, Guillermo Barros Schelotto’s men have more to worry about than settling a score.

What to watch

It’s a slugfest at the top of the Western conference. 4 teams, 24 games, 20 wins and a single loss between the LA’s, Houston Dynamo and Seattle Sounders.

Friday’s battle is an important test but also an opportunity to climb the standings as Seattle and LAFC play each other twice the next few weeks. Three points is the only acceptable target.

Will Giancarlo Gonzalez be available? Somewhat overlooked this week has been the status of the new center back’s eligibility. As of Wednesday the Costa Rican international’s paper work still hasn’t cleared.

Update: Just in the nick of time, Gonzalez has been cleared for Friday.

He's ready!



Giancarlo Gonzalez is cleared to play for the #LAGalaxy this Friday. https://t.co/FwfqQkEZzJ — Adam Serrano (@AdamSerrano) April 18, 2019

A better Houston. Wilmer Cabrera’s 2019 version of the Dynamo has the potential to be a contender. You could argue their biggest concern will be managing to hold onto the prolific duo of Alberth Elis and Mauro Manotas over the summer.

Houston are undefeated this season, but they’ve also had the easiest schedule in the league. Set to replace the injured Rolf Feltscher at right back, 17-year old Julian Aruajo will have to put in a solid shift.

Predicted starting 11

How to watch

Date/Time Friday, April 19th 8:00 PT

Venue Dignity Health Sports Park

TV UniMás

Streaming Twitter