CARSON, Calif. – The LA Galaxy will face off against an old friend on Saturday when they play host to the Chicago Fire.
The Galaxy will take on former midfielder Juninho who is expected to start on Saturday for the Fire. The Brazilian midfielder spent six seasons with the Galaxy, tallying 18 goals and 23 assists in 187 appearances, helping Los Angeles win three MLS Cups before departing for a year-long stint with Mexican side Club Tijuana. This season, Juninho has played in six matches for the Fire with one assist.
As he prepares for his first competitive match at StubHub Center as a member of the opposition, Juninho admits that the game will be an emotional one.
“I have good [memories] about L.A. I’m always going to have LA in my heart. Now I am in a different situation where I have to defend the Chicago Fire until the end," Juninho told the Fire's website. "That’s what I’m going to do. For sure, it’s going to be an emotional game for myself, but with my teammates and a good attitude we’re going to go there and get points.”
As for the match itself, Juninho expects a challenging contest as both the Fire and Galaxy head into the fixture looking for three points to bust out recent funks.
“It’s going to be a clever game,” Juninho said. “Both teams are looking forward to getting three points.”
