Union vs. LAFC: Preview, lineups, and how to watch

The Union will make their first visit to the Banc of California Stadium tonight, when they’ll match up against Carlos Vela-less Los Angeles FC.

Coming off back-to-back wins, LAFC currently sit third in the West, and sixth in the Supporters’ Shield race. Though their star is with the Mexico squad ahead of their World Cup knockout round match against Brazil, LAFC’s attack hasn’t wanted for production in his absence. Newcomer Adama Diomande has gotten off to a hot start, scoring four times in just 222 minutes. He’ll make his third straight start tonight.

The Black and Gold boast an impressive midfield, with veterans Benny Feilhaber and Lee Nguyen playing in front of young Eduard Atuesta, who will be tasked with stopping reigning MLS Player of the Week Borek Dočkal.

Behind that trio is a four-man back line with loads of MLS experience. 34-year-old left back Jordan Harvey, who made 30 appearances for the Union in their inaugural campaign, is in his 13th season in the league. Steven Beitashour, Laurent Ciman, and Walker Zimmerman have a combined 15 seasons under their belt as well.

The Union are coming off a 4-0 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps, one of their most dominant victories in recent memory. The attacking quartet ran wild: Dočkal notched a brace, Fafa Picault earned and converted a spot kick, and Ilsinho assisted on a goal and scored a penalty which Cory Burke drew. The home team took 25 shots to Vancouver’s two, and also controlled possession, 60-40. And they did it all without Haris Medunjanin, whose three-game league suspension ends after tonight. Unfortunately, they may be even more short-handed against LAFC, as both Alejandro Bedoya and Ilsinho are listed as questionable.

Projected lineups

Philadelphia Union: Andre Blake; Keegan Rosenberry, Mark McKenzie, Auston Trusty, Raymon Gaddis; Alejandro Bedoya, Warren Creavalle; Ilsinho, Borek Dockal, Fafa Picault; Cory Burke

Los Angeles FC: Tyler Miller; Steven Beitashour, Laurent Ciman, Walker Zimmerman, Jordan Harvey; Benny Feilhaber, Eduard Atuesta, Lee Nguyen; Latif Blessing, Adama Diomande, Diego Rossi

How to watch

Where: Banc of California Stadium, Los Angeles, California

When: June 30, 2018, 8:00 PM E.T.

TV: PHL17

Streaming: ESPN+

Radio: Union Radio