The stage is set in Mexico as Los Angeles FC prepares for one of its most significant challenges this year.
After securing a 2-1 victory last week, the Black & Gold travel to the Estadio Nemesio Díez for the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals.
Facing Toluca at high altitude is a difficult task for any visiting team, and the stakes for a spot in the final have made tonight the focal point of LAFC's entire spring campaign.
Head coach Mark dos Santos has been vocal about the taxing nature of the current schedule, describing it as a massive hurdle for his players. To keep the squad fresh for this trip to Mexico, the coaching staff opted for rotation when the team faced San Diego FC last week in the MLS.
Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images
Most notably, Son Heung-min was rested during that match, starting on the bench and only appearing as a late substitute.
LAFC is in the middle of a marathon, playing 13 games in only 44 days. Meanwhile, Toluca is also facing their biggest test yet, with four massive matches packed into just two weeks.
Will Son Heung-Min Play for LAFC vs Toluca?
The decision to manage Son's minutes was a calculated move with tonight in mind. Fans can expect to see Son Heung-min back in the starting lineup tonight against Toluca.
His presence is vital for LAFC’s transition play, especially as they look to capitalize on their one-goal aggregate lead.
Son has been in incredible form during this tournament having already scored two goals and five assists in just six matches. It was his late free-kick in the first leg that actually set up the winning goal.
LAFC will be leaning on his clinical touch tonight to help them secure their place in the final against Tigres.
