As the Easter weekend unfolds, the Los Angeles Galaxy are still searching for their first regular season win, a plight that has left fans and analysts alike questioning the defending champions' ability to rebound. Entering this match against Austin FC, the Galaxy have faced a daunting start to the 2025 MLS season, with the top five teams in the MLS Western Conference having already bested them. If the Galaxy falter again, Austin FC will become the sixth team to claim victory over the six-time MLS Cup winners this year.
The anticipation for the match is palpable, with kickoff scheduled for 12:45 p.m. (CT) at Q2 Stadium, which is also set to host this year’s MLS All-Star Game. Fans can catch the action live on MLS Season Pass, Apple TV, and Fox, ensuring that support for the Galaxy remains strong despite their current struggles.
Currently, the Galaxy sit at the bottom of the Western Conference standings with a dismal record of 0-3-5, while Austin FC is enjoying a more favorable position at 4-1-3. The Galaxy's performance at Q2 Stadium hasn’t been encouraging either; they have only managed one win in four matches there, scoring just four goals while conceding seven.
Last weekend, the Galaxy celebrated a milestone as veteran midfielder Diego Fagundez played his 400th career MLS game. In that match against the Houston Dynamo, Fagundez managed to score in the 57th minute, helping the Galaxy to a 1-1 draw. However, this draw marked the Galaxy’s third of the season, contributing to their ongoing winless streak, the worst start in franchise history.
Galaxy head coach Greg Vanney expressed concerns about his team's performance, stating, "I think even though we're getting healthier, there are still guys that have not played a ton with us and that are still learning a little bit more about what we're trying to do. But, yeah, we've got to clean it up. Clean up putting ourselves in a hole and the not-so-good starts. Those are the biggest things. Because after that, I feel like we find ourselves back into the game and we look all right." Vanney’s comments highlight the challenges the team faces as they try to find their footing this season.
Fagundez, who previously played for Austin FC from 2021 to 2023, may need to step up again if the Galaxy hope to turn their fortunes around. His familiarity with the opposition could provide a crucial advantage. The projected starting lineup for the Galaxy features goalkeeper John McCarthy, defenders John Nelson, Carlos Garces, Miki Yamane, and Harbor Miller, midfielders Diego Fagundez, Edwin Cerrillo, and Lucas Sanabria, and forwards Gabriel Pec, Joseph Paintsil, and Christian Ramirez.
As the match approaches, predictions are mixed. Some analysts foresee a tightly contested affair, with a common prediction being a 2-2 draw. However, the Galaxy will need to improve their finishing and defensive organization to secure any points against a resilient Austin FC side.
In the meantime, Austin FC has been gaining momentum and confidence, with striker Brandon Vazquez being a key player to watch. After struggling to find the net in the early part of the season, Vazquez will be eager to capitalize on any opportunities presented to him. The team’s performance has been bolstered by a solid midfield and a strong defensive unit, making them a formidable opponent.
For fans unable to attend the match in person, several bars across California will be showcasing the game, including venues like Absolution Brewing Company in Torrance and Hennessey’s Tavern in Hermosa Beach. With the early kickoff time of 10:30 a.m. PT, patrons are advised to confirm with specific establishments to ensure they will be open for the match.
As the match unfolds, the stakes are high for both teams. Austin FC, currently sitting sixth in the Western Conference, is keen to maintain their upward trajectory, while the Galaxy desperately seek their first win to avoid further embarrassment and to reignite their season. The historical head-to-head record favors the Galaxy, who have won five out of their previous eight encounters with Austin FC, but the current form suggests that past successes may not guarantee future results.
In terms of injuries, both teams have faced their share of challenges. Austin FC's Mikkel Desler is sidelined with a hamstring issue, while the Galaxy are grappling with injuries to Riqui Puig (ACL) and Marco Reus (knee), with the latter making a return to the squad after an extended absence. The Galaxy will also be without Mathias Jorgensen, who is currently suspended.
As the players take to the field, all eyes will be on the Galaxy to see if they can finally break their winless streak and reclaim their place among the league’s elite. The excitement is building, and the outcome remains uncertain as the match progresses. Will the Galaxy find their rhythm, or will Austin FC continue their strong run? Only time will tell.
