East meets West as Chicago and LA collide on July 7. Catch real time updates on your favorite Major League Soccer 2012 Match.

Chicago Fire Preview

The Fire seems to be on the right track disregarding the draw against Houston last July 3rd. In the Eastern conference, they have a number 4 ranking with eight wins, five losses and four ties tallying a total of 28 points. Being in the top five can prove a lot for any time even if being pitted against a group from the Western counterpart. Their most recent loss came about on June 2 against New England but the preceding matches were in Chicago’s favour as they beat then number 1 New York Bulls.

But defence is a major problem for the Fire. Letting 19 goals from their last 17 games indicate a weak protection for the team. Going up against a team like the Los Angeles Galaxy and taking control of the game requires a lot of good defence especially with the Galaxy’s current record of 26 goals out of the previous 18 matches played so far this season.

Los Angeles Galaxy Preview

The LA Galaxy, as of now are ranked at number 6 in the Western Conference with six wins, ten losses, and two draws raking in a total of 20 points. In the beginning of the season despite some challenges, things seemed pretty much promising for Beckham and the boys. But after two losses in a row, the latest being against Philadelphia with 1-2 on the Fourth of July and before that was with San Jose with 4-3 and was dubbed one of the greatest games of the season, LA is obviously have some trouble and might be headed for a downward spiral. Now, LA Galaxy midfielder David Beckham was given a one-game suspension and fined an undisclosed amount by the Disciplinary Committee for his provocative behaviour following the Galaxy’s 4-3 loss to San Jose on June 30.

Without Beckham, the team needs to get their act together and focus. Mike Magee will probably deputize in the midfield and they need to maintain their power of attack against a strong team such as the Chicago Fire.

Chicago Fire vs Los Angeles Galaxy Predictions: Chicago Fire wins 1-0

Sure, the Galaxy is strong in both areas, defense and attack. But the Fire as an ace up their sleeve in the form of Marco Pappa. If he is able to continue his exceptional form in midfield, the Fire should rebound on Sunday.

Betting Odds and Tips Chicago Fire vs Los Angeles Galaxy:

Chicago Fire: 2.51 - 1.40 - 71.50%
Draw: 3.10 - 1.32 - 75.61%
Los Angeles Galaxy: 2.78 - 1.36 - 73.54%

Source: [sbobet]