Nashville SC Aims to Extend Eastern Conference Lead Against LAFC

Nashville SC will be looking to build on their Eastern Conference lead when they host Los Angeles FC on Sunday night.

Nashville SC (8-1-3, 27 points) entered the weekend at the top of the Eastern Conference, two points ahead of Inter Miami. The team is known for its strong defense, having conceded only eight goals, which is tied with Seattle for the fewest in MLS as of Saturday’s play.

Demonstrating depth, Nashville received contributions from various players. With central midfielders Eddi Tagseth and Patrick Yazbek sidelined due to injury during Wednesday’s match against New England, Bryan Acosta stepped in to score two goals, helping secure a 3-0 victory.

Both of Acosta’s goals were assisted by Cristian Espinoza, who was acquired from the San Jose Earthquakes in the offseason. This addition has bolstered an already strong lineup that includes Sam Surridge, Hany Mukhtar, and Warren Madrigal. Together, this quartet has combined for 20 goals and 15 assists this season.

Nashville SC’s coach B.J. Callaghan praised Mukhtar, who has been with the club since its inaugural match in 2020, for his leadership and selflessness on the field.

“He’s just been so selfless in doing a lot of work to open up the opportunities for other guys,” Callaghan stated.

On the other hand, LAFC (6-4-3, 21 points) faced a setback, losing 2-1 to St. Louis City SC on Wednesday, marking their first loss to the four-year-old franchise. Although LAFC had an 18-7 advantage in shots, they managed only four on target and missed crucial opportunities, allowing St. Louis City to score both goals.

First-year LAFC coach Marc Dos Santos mentioned that his team is feeling the effects of a busy schedule, having played twice a week since the season began in late February due to CONCACAF Champions Cup commitments.

“None of our players right now are at 100% and it’s just a reality that we’re facing,” said Dos Santos, as his team is currently winless in their last four matches across all competitions. “Sometimes, there are moments that are just difficult for a team and don’t go your way. Right now, we’re in a moment like that.”

LAFC forward Hueng-Min Son has yet to score in 11 league matches this season (10 starts) but has contributed with eight assists.