COG STUDIOS, Calif. — The LA Galaxy playoff push is about to hit its most important stretch of the season — and suddenly Chucky Lozano’s health is a major concern.
On this episode of Corner of the Galaxy, Josh Guesman is joined by Southern California News Group reporter Damian Calhoun to break down where the Galaxy stand with only six games remaining. And the schedule is about to accelerate dramatically: LA will play three of those final six matches in just seven days, putting Greg Vanney’s roster depth, rotation, and playoff hopes under enormous pressure.
The biggest question surrounds Chucky Lozano, who left Mexico’s camp with what Vanney described as a hamstring injury. With an MRI and further evaluation needed, Josh and Damian discuss just how costly even a short absence could be. Missing only one week could mean missing half of the Galaxy’s remaining regular-season games.
There is some encouraging injury news. Joseph Paintsil returned against Cruz Azul and scored, giving LA another attacking option just when it may need one most. But how quickly can Paintsil be brought back to full speed, and how does Vanney manage minutes for Paintsil, Marco Reus, Sergi Roberto and the rest of the roster during a three-game week?
The guys also dig into the MLS Western Conference playoff race. LA sits ninth and currently occupies a play-in position, with Colorado level on points and Portland, Real Salt Lake and San Diego four points behind. The Galaxy have created some breathing room, but the goal is bigger than simply hanging onto ninth — and with 18 points still available, there is plenty left to decide.
Then it’s time to look ahead to a difficult trip to St. Louis, followed quickly by massive games against Portland and San Diego. Those matches could reshape the playoff race in a matter of days, and LA will have almost no meaningful training time between them.
Plus, Josh and Damian discuss Marco Reus being named Galaxy Player of the Month, what they learned from the 2-1 friendly loss to Cruz Azul, concerns about Kyogo Furuhashi’s finishing, some promising performances from LA’s younger players, and the latest encouraging signs from Riqui Puig’s recovery.
Six games remain. Three are coming in one week. Chucky’s status is uncertain. Paintsil is returning. And the Galaxy’s margin for error is getting smaller by the day.
🎙️ Corner of the Galaxy gets you ready for the final sprint toward the MLS Cup Playoffs.
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