LAFC shift focus to El Trafico after 4-2 victory over Orlando City | OneFootball

LAFC triumphed 4-2 over Orlando City on Saturday to remain the only unbeaten side of the Western Conference.

The teams went into halftime with a 2-2 draw before the Black and Gold found their way with goals from Ilie Sanchez and Kwadwo Opoku.

Steve Cherundolo’s side now leads the table in the West with 13 points in five games and a record of 4-1-0.

"Orlando played extremely well the first half and I also thought that we played quite poorly and defended poorly. We had to make an adjustment during the half and then I thought we had better control of the game. We found a way to win, and I’m pleased with that," said Cherundolo.

"It builds confidence in what we do. It builds trust in our work.Getting everybody back after the international break is always tricky but continuing with our winning ways was very important tonight."

The team’s focus is now the upcoming rivalry match against the LA Galaxy on Saturday. The highly anticipated El Trafico will see Chicharito face off against former Mexican national team teammate Carlos Vela as first place takes on 10th.

"Our focus now is directed towards the derby next weekend, which we will be ready for. We will have certain specific messages for our players directed towards the Galaxy and how we want to prepare to beat them. We take this game very seriously and this opponent that we respect very much... but we also want to win," said Cherundolo.

For some on the LAFC squad, Saturday’s match will be their first ever El Trafico experience. New addition Maxime Crepeau, who joined LAFC from the Vancouver Whitecaps during the offseason, expressed his excitement at confronting LA Galaxy before warning players not to get ahead of themselves.

"I can’t wait. It’s massive for our organization. These two stadiums are so close. As players, we know that there’s a little spark in the air when that kickoff starts," he said.

"It’s going to be exciting. Right now it’s positive with four wins and one tie, but it’s a long season. It’s a marathon. We need to be humble, put our heads down and really dig deep during the week."