San Jose's Defensive Test
San Jose Earthquakes Seek Defensive Improvement Against Strong LA Galaxy In Key Match
The San Jose Earthquakes enter their match against the Los Angeles Galaxy with a defensive problem. The team was outscored 7-3 over two straight losses, dropping from a three-way tie for first in the Western Conference to fourth place, according to Fresno Bee.
San Jose sits at 10-6-3 with 33 points. They are one of MLS's top-scoring teams, but their defense has let them down at the worst time.
San Jose's Defense Collapses at the Wrong Time
As recently as July 25, San Jose was tied for first in the Western Conference. Then came two straight losses. Opponents scored 7 goals in those two games. The Earthquakes only answered with 3. That kind of defensive collapse can quickly erase months of good work.
The team now sits in fourth place in the West. A win against the Galaxy could push them back up the standings. But they'll need to fix their backline fast, according to Bellingham Herald.
Galaxy's Defense Has Been Tough to Crack
The Galaxy come in playing strong defense. They have allowed just 2 goals over their last 3 matches, according to Star-Telegram. That's a big problem for a San Jose team already struggling to stop opponents from scoring.
Defender Jakob Glesnes has been a key part of that defensive wall. The Galaxy have looked organized and hard to break down. San Jose will need a strong attacking effort just to get on the board.
Lozano and Roberto Add Firepower to LA's Roster
The Galaxy have also made moves to get better in recent weeks. They added forward Hirving "Chucky" Lozano from San Diego FC, a well-known attacker with international experience. Midfielder Sergi Roberto also joined the club, adding more depth in the middle of the field.
These additions make the Galaxy a more dangerous team on both ends of the field. For San Jose, that means the match is a tough test on both offense and defense, according to Fresno Bee.
A Must-Win Moment for the Earthquakes
San Jose cannot afford to fall further behind in the standings. The Western Conference race is tight, and more losses could push them out of a top playoff spot. The Earthquakes have the offensive talent to score — the question is whether they can stop the Galaxy from doing the same.
If San Jose fixes its defense and plays to its attacking strengths, it can stay in the playoff hunt. But another collapse like the last two games could make the rest of their season very difficult, according to Bellingham Herald.
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