MLS Sunday Preview: D.C. United - L.A. Galaxy

D.C. United vs. Los Angeles Galaxy

When: 12 p.m. ET; TV: ABC

Where: RFK Memorial Stadium, Washington, D.C.

The Gist: The two most storied franchises in MLS square off in a midday affair that serves as the precursor to the Euro 2008 Final on ABC. Four-time MLS Cup winners D.C. United host the Los Angeles Galaxy, who have won the same trophy twice, in a game between two teams who bring plenty of offense and not much defense to the table. The Galaxy have scored the most goals thus far and have given up the second most, while United have given up the most goals and scored the second most. Between the two teams they also feature the top three goal scorers as Landon Donovan (11 goals) leads both Edson Buddle and Luciano Emilio by two goals. Plenty of offense is expected in this rare noon kickoff on national television.

Why You Should Care: If you like defensive soccer, this match is not for you. D.C. United is the only team that has yet to record a shutout, and facing the prolific Los Angeles offense, that stat will continue well into July when they play their next league match. United are currently riding a three-game winning streak, while the Galaxy have also not lost in June. The weather, which is expected to reach 90º and high humidity, will likely be the only factor in slowing down these offenses that are averaging three goals per game this month. As a result, the team that possess the ball a majority will have the advantage by making the opposing team work more. United should have that in their favor, as Marcelo Gallardo controls the run of play in a slower style than the Galaxy enjoy. However, David Beckham’s right foot can change the course of a game in an instant, and he will look to play Edson Buddle and Landon Donovan through behind a back four of United that is always susceptible to precise passes. L.A. striker Carlos Ruiz was expected to suit up and bolster an already impressive offense, but the Guatemalan did not travel with the team. While the Galaxy’s offense are led by their strikers, United has shown anyone on the field can score as evidenced by last week’s three goals coming from a forward, a midfielder, and a defender. In what is expected to be a high-scoring affair, that variety gives United an advantage, as does the early start time that will feel like a 9 a.m. kickoff for Los Angeles.

He’s So Hot Right Now: Landon Donovan. In a game full of stars, the U.S. international’s is the one burning the brightest. Donovan won Player of the Week honors last week for the third time this season, as he registered his MLS-best fourth multi-goal game of the season. Donovan has a propensity to raise his level at RFK with four goals in his last three trips to the nation’s capital, and playing against United’s dreadful defense should allow him to continue his hot play.

Prediction: D.C. United 3, Los Angeles Galaxy 2

-- Pat Walsh, Goal.com USA