Three Players to Watch: LAFC
(image via LAFC)
Each week we’ll be looking more into the Houston Dynamo’s opponent, talking to media that covers the team, digging into what we can expect from that squad, and in this series, taking a look at three players to watch from the upcoming opponent. This Saturday, LAFC arrives at Shell Energy Stadium, as Houston looks to stay perfect and continue turning their home ground into a fortress in 2026.
Los Angeles finished third in the Western Conference last season, earning a spot in the MLS Cup Playoffs before bowing out in the conference semifinals against the Vancouver Whitecaps. Under new head coach Marc Dos Santos, LAFC enters the season with high expectations and a squad built to compete on multiple fronts, including the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
It would be easy to focus solely on star names like Son Heung-Min and Denis Bouanga, but here are three additional players who could have a major impact this weekend.
David Martinez
The 20-year-old Venezuelan forward is very much a star in the making. Martinez combines elite acceleration with sharp dribbling ability, making him especially dangerous in one-on-one situations. He thrives when attacking space, whether cutting inside from wide areas or running directly at defenders in transition.
Martinez has already made his presence felt in 2026, scoring LAFC’s opening goal of the season against Inter Miami and adding another in Champions Cup play versus Real España. Houston’s back line will need to stay disciplined, avoid overcommitting, and be prepared for his sudden bursts of speed and creativity.
Timothy Tillman
Since arriving in MLS in 2023, Tillman has quietly developed into one of the league’s most reliable midfielders. He’s a high-IQ player who dictates tempo, links phases of play, and consistently positions himself to keep attacks flowing. Tillman is comfortable under pressure and rarely wastes possession.
With ambitions of breaking into Mauricio Pochettino’s U.S. World Cup plans, his motivation this season is obvious. Tillman will look to get on the ball frequently, connect with LAFC’s attacking stars, and exploit gaps between Houston’s midfield and defense. Cutting off his passing lanes and disrupting his rhythm will be key for the Dynamo.
Stephen Eustaquio
The Canadian international serves as LAFC’s metronome. Eustaquio excels at controlling matches through intelligent distribution, positional awareness, and defensive work rate. He’s the type of midfielder who makes everything look simple while quietly shaping the game.
Beyond his technical quality, Eustaquio brings edge and intensity. He’s not afraid to battle, press, and break up opposing attacks. As he eyes a major role with Canada on the world stage this summer, expect him to set the tone physically and tactically. Houston’s midfield will need to match his energy while preventing him from comfortably orchestrating play.
LAFC’s firepower naturally draws attention, but these three players could heavily influence how the match unfolds. For Houston, managing their impact may go a long way toward protecting home turf once again.
