Match Day Quick Reference Card: Sounders vs. Galaxy, Leg 1

The Sounders lineup was an easy one. We're expecting them to go with the same starting group they've used in five of the past six games. 

The Galaxy are not quite as settled. Center back Gregg Berhalter's status is still not known and Landon Donovan has periodically been moved from wide mid to more of a withdrawn forward. We're assuming AJ DeLaGarza gets the nod over Berhalter and Donovan plays forward.

This should present some interesting matchups. DeLaGarza is not very big, but has the speed to match up well with Fredy Montero, while Omar Gonzalez seems a good matchup for Blaise Nkufo. Sean Franklin likes to get forward, but will probably have to be careful with Steve Zakuani lining up opposite him, while Todd Dunivant is more of a stay-at-home left back. 

The Galaxy's m/o has been to revert more to of a counterstrike style, especially on the road and it's hard to see that changing today. The Sounders have an obvious speed advantage, but have not faced any offensive players in the second half that are as proficient as the three-pronged attack of Edson Buddle-David Beckham-Donovan.

Match card:  S Sounders vs. Galaxy Leg 1