Ah, what a wild ride it has been for LAFC on this rollercoaster of a season. The ups and downs, the twists and turns – it’s been a real thrill for fans and observers alike. But as we buckle up for another thrilling chapter in the LAFC saga, it’s time to take a closer look at what’s been causing all the bumps and bruises along the way, and more importantly, how they can smooth out the ride.
When delving into the root of LAFC’s struggles, it becomes abundantly clear that their defensive woes have been a major factor. The memory of their 5-1 loss to the Crew at BMO in July still haunts fans and critics alike, serving as a glaring reminder of just how leaky their defense has been at times. While every team in MLS faces defensive challenges, LAFC’s issues seem to be more pronounced due to their tactical approach that heavily relies on their defensive solidity.
Under the guidance of Steve Cherundolo, who took over from the legendary Bob Bradley in 2022, LAFC has undergone a significant transformation in their style of play. Cherundolo has shifted the team’s focus towards compact defending and quick transition attacks, moving away from the possession-based game that was synonymous with Bradley’s tenure. The shift in philosophy is evident in the statistics – LAFC’s average possession has decreased from 53.4% under Bradley to 49.9% under Cherundolo. When they take the lead, LAFC are no longer obsessed with retaining possession; instead, they are content to sit back, soak up pressure, and strike on the break.
“It’s been a challenging transition for the team, but we believe in the direction that Coach Cherundolo is taking us,” says midfielder Diego Rossi. “We know we need to tighten up at the back and be more clinical in our defending, but we’re confident that we can turn things around.”
Indeed, the road ahead for LAFC is filled with opportunities for improvement. With the right adjustments and a renewed focus on defensive solidity, they have the potential to reclaim their status as one of the top teams in MLS. As the rollercoaster ride continues, one thing is certain – the journey is far from over for LAFC, and the best twists and turns may still be yet to come.
