Los Angeles FC and Esperance de Tunis are in a critical situation as they prepare to face each other in the Club World Cup, knowing that a defeat could lead to their elimination from the group stage.
Both teams suffered 2-0 losses in their opening matches, with Los Angeles falling to Chelsea and Esperance de Tunis being defeated by Flamengo.
Los Angeles is new to the Club World Cup, earning their spot in the tournament with a 2-1 victory over America last month.
Esperance de Tunis, on the other hand, is participating in the competition for the fourth time but has had little success, winning only one out of seven games.
Team news
Oliver Giroud is vying for a starting spot after coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 loss to Chelsea. Nathan Ordaz picked up an injury against Chelsea and may be replaced by 19-year-old forward David Martinez. Defender Lorenzo Dellavalle is sidelined with a knee injury.
For Esperance de Tunis, attackers Abdramane Konate and Elias Mokwana could replace Yan Sasse and Chiheb Jebali, who were substituted at half-time in the loss to Flamengo. Rodrigo Rodrigues started in the previous game but faces competition from Achref Jebri.
The stats
Los Angeles FC have scored two or more goals in 10 of their last 11 matches.
In four of the last five matches involving Los Angeles FC, both teams have scored.
Six of Los Angeles FC's last seven games have seen at least three goals scored.
Esperance de Tunis have scored in 23 of their last 25 matches.
Prediction
Los Angeles FC are expected to bounce back from their loss to Chelsea and secure a victory over Esperance de Tunis in Nashville.
Despite the defeat to Chelsea, Los Angeles showed a positive performance, registering seven shots, four on target.
Coach Steve Cherundolo will be pushing for a more proactive approach against Esperance de Tunis, with key players like Olivier Giroud and Denis Bouanga providing the attacking threat.
In contrast, Esperance de Tunis struggled in their previous game and might face an early exit from the tournament.